Mysuru: The Coorg Wildlife Society (CWS) has requested the State Government to continue the existing policy of total ban on conversion of agricultural land, plantation land and paddy land into commercial and residential layouts in Kodagu.

In a letter to Chief Secretary T.M. Vijay Bhaskar, President of CWS K.C. Biddappa has said that one of the reasons for devastating floods and unprecedented landslides that played havoc on thousands of planters and residents of Kodagu is rampant and indiscriminate land conversions that have eroded the mountains and hilly regions.

Taking into consideration the long-term sustainability of Kodagu landscape, we request you to continue the existing policy of total ban on conversion of agricultural land, plantation land and paddy lands for commercial and residential layouts despite pressure from vested interests, Biddappa has stated. However for genuine farmers and planters permission may be given to convert 5 to 10 cents of their land to build farm houses and related amenities.