Legislative Committee Finds Administrative Drawbacks at Pilikula Nisargadhama

A recent inspection by the Karnataka Legislature Committee on Subordinate Legislation revealed significant administrative shortcomings and poor management practices at the Dr. Shivarama Karantha Pilikula Nisargadhama in Mangaluru. The committee, led by MLA S.R. Srinivas, expressed strong dissatisfaction, noting a distinct lack of coordination among various stakeholder government departments crucial for promoting the unique ecological and scientific research, educational, cultural, and tourist destination. Lawmakers highlighted an apparent 'laziness and lethargy' among officials, suggesting that if these issues persist, the Nisargadhama's long-term viability could be jeopardized. Specific concerns were raised regarding poorly conceptualized science-related shows at the Swami Vivekananda Planetarium within Pilikula, with one MLC even suggesting its closure if improvements are not made. The committee emphasized the authority's failure to adequately publicize the attractions, attributing it to poor public relations. To address these systemic problems, the committee has called for an overall revamp of the Pilikula Development Authority's administration and recommended the transfer of the Pilikula Biological Park's management to the Zoo Authority of Karnataka under the Forest Department, a move that has already received government approval and is expected to be implemented within a month.