The process to define eco-sensitive zones around protected areas in the Western Ghats has entered a consultation stage, with the Union forest and environment authorities seeking views from environmental experts and activists after inviting public feedback on proposed maps.
The Western Ghats stretch across about 1,600 km and run alongside Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat. Under the current exercise, areas within a specified distance of protected areas may be identified as eco-sensitive zones, where development activity would be regulated to limit potential environmental damage.
The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has directed that the boundaries of these zones be defined. Following the order, work on identifying and mapping the proposed boundaries has begun, according to the report by Dinamalar, which cited a forest and environment department official.
The official said lists had been prepared for locations in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu and Kerala that could be vulnerable to environmental impacts. In Tamil Nadu, the Western Ghats cover about 6,914 square kilometres, of which 135 locations have been identified as areas of ecological importance.
A draft list has also been prepared of locations that may need to be declared eco-sensitive zones. Maps showing the land parcels included in the proposals have been published on the Union government forest department website for public viewing, the official said.
The mapping exercise is significant for residents and landholders because the final boundaries will determine which locations fall within the proposed regulatory areas. The report does not specify the development restrictions that would apply to individual sites, or the exact distance from protected areas that will be used in every location.
Members of the public have already submitted their views on the proposed boundaries. The authorities are now seeking responses from environmental experts and activists before taking the process forward. The final boundaries of the eco-sensitive zones are expected to be announced after these consultations are completed.
