Overview Chamundi Hill , a prominent landmark of Mysuru , is not only a revered religious center believed to be the abode of Goddess Chamundeshwari but also a protected forest area rich in biodiversity. However, environmentalists have voiced concerns regarding the gradual loss of its ecological balance and spiritual sanctity due to unrestrained commercialisation and ‘unscientific’ projects. Key Issues Environmental Degradation Unauthorised Shops and Stalls: A rapid increase in the number of unauthorised shops and roadside stalls has been observed. Vehicular Congestion: Increased vehicular traffic contributes to pollution and disturbance. Plastic Waste: Piles of garbage and plastic waste are becoming increasingly evident. Loss of Tranquility: The absence of cleanliness and tranquility is detrimental to both the forest ecosystem and the temple precinct. Unscientific Projects Experts have cautioned that major construction and infrastructure projects, such as those under the ‘PRASHAD’ scheme , are being undertaken without a scientific assessment of the hill’s carrying capacity. This raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of the region. Conservation Efforts ‘Parisarakkagi Naavu’ Initiative In response to these concerns, ‘Parisarakkagi Naavu’ (We for the Environment) , a Mysuru-based organisation, has launched a series of initiatives aimed at safeguarding Chamundi Hill . The first of these is a peaceful walk scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2026 , to highlight the risks faced by the hill ecosystem. Support and Participation Organisations: Several organisations, including the Mysuru Grahakara Parishat, Team Mysuru, PUCL, Belavala Foundation, Youth for Ecological Sustainability, and the Mysuru Cultural Association , have extended their support to the awareness event. Prominent Seers: Prominent seers from various mutts, such as Shivakumara Swami of Nandaveri Mutt (Gadag district), Nijalingananda Swami of Nidasosi Mutt (Belagavi district), Basavarajendra Swami of Kesavatturu Mutt (Hassan district) and Mallesh Swami of Torenuru Mutt (Kodagu district) , are expected to participate. Other Participants: Other notable individuals expected to join include former MLA A.T. Ramaswamy, Major General Sudheer Vombatkere (retd), Bhamy Shenoy, N.S. Rangaraju, Horeyala Doreswamy, Kale Gowda Nagavara and Kripakara , among others. The Peaceful Walk Details of the Event Commencement: The walk will commence at 7.30 a.m. on January 4, 2026 , from the foothills of Chamundi Hill near the Suttur Mutt . Procession: Participants will carry placards and ascend the hill via the steps in a silent and peaceful manner. Concluding Meeting: The programme will conclude with a brief public meeting in front of the Subbanna Balika High School . Accessibility: Those unable to climb the steps due to health reasons may reach the hilltop by road and join the concluding meeting at the school premises. UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Exam , particularly under GS Paper 3 (Environment and Ecology) and GS Paper 1 (Indian Culture) . It highlights the challenges of balancing development with environmental conservation and the role of civil society in protecting natural and cultural heritage. Key Concepts for UPSC Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): The importance of conducting EIAs before undertaking major projects in ecologically sensitive areas. Sustainable Tourism: Balancing the economic benefits of tourism with the need to protect the environment and cultural heritage. Role of Civil Society: The significance of community participation and activism in environmental conservation. Government Schemes: Understanding the objectives and impact of schemes like PRASHAD on pilgrimage sites.