CENTRE REISSUES WESTERN GHATS ESA DRAFT NOTIFICATION

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The Centre reissued the Western Ghats ESA draft notification amid stat objections and ongoing debates about environmental protection and development.


source:toi

Reissue of Draft Notification:

The Union government reissued a draft notification for the sixth time, proposing to classify parts of the Western Ghats in six states (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu) as Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs).
This notification aims to restrict activities like quarrying, mining, and large infrastructure projects in these regions. The latest draft, open for public comments for 60 days, follows the expiration of the previous version in July 2022.

State Concerns and Objections:

States have consistently objected to specific areas being classified as ESAs, citing potential impacts on agriculture, hydroelectric projects, and local migration issues.
Kerala, in particular, expressed concerns about the impact on plantations and development plans. The draft has faced severe backlash, hindering its progression into law.

What are Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs)?

Definition: Land within 10 km of national parks/wildlife sanctuaries, with potential extension for ecologically important corridors.
Purpose: Act as “shock absorbers” to protect fragile ecosystems from nearby human activities.
Prohibitions: Commercial mining, saw mills, commercial wood use.
Regulations: Controls on tree felling, among others.
Permitted: Ongoing agriculture, horticulture, rainwater harvesting, organic farming.

About Western Ghats Eco-Sensitive Area (ESA):

2011 Gadgil Committee: Proposed 64% of Western Ghats as ESA.
2013 Kasturirangan Committee: Recommended 37% of the region as ESA.
States’ Concerns: States like Karnataka and Goa opposed the ESA extent due to potential negative impacts on local livelihoods and development.
Karnataka: Opposed 20,668 km² ESA proposal.
Goa: Requested a reduction from 1,461 km² ESA.

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