Mysuru: Mysuru District Journalists Association (MDJA) and Yukta Prakashana together had organised a function at Pathrakartara Bhavan here this morning for the release of the book ‘Kodagina Thallana,’ a collection of true stories behind the recent natural calamity in Kodagu, written by I. Ramesh Uthappa.

Speaking on the book, Professor Dr. Besur Mohan Palegar said that the 11 chapters of the book have thrown light on man-made ecological imbalance in Kodagu with indiscriminate construction of homestays and resorts. He added that farmers have taken up growing commercial crops consuming a lot of water thus disturbing the environment.

Ramesh Uthappa recalled the tragedy he had witnessed and squarely blamed the politician and the land sharks for the catastrophe.

Releasing the book, Vijaya Karnataka Editor Hariprakash Konemane wondered whom to blame for the natural calamity in Kodagu where too many factors played part and added that the catastrophe was a living testimony of effect of disturbing natural surroundings.

Wildlife photographers Kripakar and Senani were the chief guests.

MDJA President C.K. Mahendra presided. Yukta Prakashana Publisher Omkarappa and others were present during the programme.