Bengaluru, Aug. 13 -- Karnataka Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Eshwar B Khandre warned against environmental damage caused by off-road vehicle events and directed officials to ensure strict enforcement of rules.

In a letter dated August 12 addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of Zilla Panchayat, Chikkamagaluru, the Minister noted that he will flag off an Off-Road event in Nelamangala, Bengaluru Rural district, on August 15. A similar event is scheduled to be held in Kuduremukh, Chikkamagaluru district, on August 15 and 16.

Referring to Article 51A(g) of the Constitution, which lists protection and improvement of forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife as a fundamental duty of citizens, Khandre said preserving the natural e...