Bengaluru: Sri Vishwesha Teertha, the pontiff of the Udupi Sri Pejavara Adokshaja Matt attributed the recent deluge witnessed in Kerala, Kodagu and in a few parts of Dakshina Kannada to the destruction of the environment and unscientific implementation of developmental projects in the Western Ghats.

Addressing a press meet here on Wednesday, August 29, Vishwesha Teertha Swamy said that the state government should re-examine the ongoing “Yettinahole Integrated Drinking Water Project” in Sakalespur Taluk. The project is being constructed to provide water to Bengaluru, Tumkur and Kolar by diverting water from the tributaries of Nethravathi River.

“Diverting the rivers and destruction of the forest are harmful to nature. The government should re-examine the project and discuss with scientists and experts regarding the project. I am not against or in favour of anyone. My only concern is the welfare of the society,” he added.

The seer also said that he would visit Kodagu after “Chaturmasa.” The matt will be donating Rs 20 Lakh as relief for the flood affected in Kodagu.