Forest Minister says 'no' to hydel projects posing threat to environment

August 1, 2013

Mangalore, Aug 1: In a positive remark, Minister for Forests, Environment and Ecology B Ramanath Rai on Thursday said that no hydel project would be allowed to come up in the state, if it would cause adverse effects or harm to the environment.

Speaking to mediapersons about the proposed thermal power plant at Niddodi, he said that the pros and cons of the project had to be discussed and debated upon. “I have spoken to the Chief Minister of Karnataka about refusal of any projects that may pose threat to the environment. The proposal to the Niddodi project was made in 2006, and only if no harm is ensured to the environment will the project be allowed to take off,” he said.

He said that permission would be required at three different levels to obtain a green signal for the project.

Relief to evicted families

Mr Rai said that tribals and forest dwellers possessing over ten acres of land in reserve forest areas for three generations would be provided with all basic facilities under Forest Conservation Act if they had to be evicted. A sum of Rs 35 crore has been allotted for this purpose in the state budget, he said.

Netravathi diversion project

Responding to a query on the Yettinahole project, he said that a comprehensive and detailed scientific study should be made before taking any decision on the proposed river diversion project.

He also said that conservation of forests was of utmost importance.

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Air India Express brings back Mangaluru–Muscat direct flights from March 2026

News Network

December 15,2025

Mangaluru, Dec 15: Air India Express has announced that it will resume direct flight services between Mangaluru and Muscat from March 2026, restoring an important international air link for passengers from the coastal region.

Airport authorities said the service will operate twice a week—on Sundays and Tuesdays—from March 1. The initial flights are scheduled on March 3, 8 and 10, followed by March 15 and 17, with the same operating pattern to continue thereafter. The flight duration is approximately three hours and 25 minutes.

The Mangaluru–Muscat route was earlier operated under the 2025 summer schedule, with services beginning on July 14. At that time, Air India Express had operated four flights a week before suspending the service.

Officials said the summer schedule will come into effect from March 29, after which changes in flight timings and departure schedules from Mangaluru are expected. Passengers have been advised to check the latest schedules while planning their travel.

The resumption of direct flights to Muscat is expected to significantly benefit expatriates, business travellers and others, further strengthening Mangaluru’s air connectivity with the Gulf region.

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