Centre proposes declaring 57,000 Sq Km of Western Ghats Eco-Sensitive | Exclusive

In the wake of the tragic event in Wayanad, the Centre has released a draft notification declaring approximately 57,000 sq km of the Western Ghats as an ‘ecologically-sensitive area’. This move, aimed at preventing further degradation of the fragile ecosystem, involves 13 villages in Wayanad and around 10,000 sq km in Kerala. News18 has obtained the detailed draft notification exclusively, issued by the Centre on July 31, proposing to designate nearly 36% of the Western Ghats as eco-sensitive.

Citizens have a 60-day window to provide feedback to the Centre before the final notification is published. The draft notification outlines plans to declare approximately 56,826 sq km across six states as ‘ecologically sensitive’, imposing restrictions on commercial activities such as mining, new thermal plants, and certain industries.

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This marks the sixth time the draft notification has been issued, with the last one dating back to July 2022. The Wayanad tragedy underscored the consequences of unregulated commercialization in the absence of an ‘ecologically sensitive area’ designation.

IMPORTANCE OF WESTERN GHATS

The Western Ghats, stretching over 1500 km, is vital for water resources and biodiversity in India. The High-Level Working Group, formed to protect this region, recommended making approximately 37% of the Western Ghats ecologically sensitive.

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WHAT WILL THE BAN COVER?

The ban will include activities like mining, quarrying, and new thermal power projects in the Ecologically Sensitive Area. Existing mines are to be phased out within five years, and new industrial projects will face restrictions to protect the environment.

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New hydropower projects will be allowed only if they maintain ecological flow in rivers. The notification emphasizes the need to preserve the ecological balance while allowing sustainable development.

The ownership of property in the designated Ecologically Sensitive Area will not be affected by these regulations, ensuring that local residents are not adversely impacted.