New Delhi: The Centre is set to notify parts of the Western Ghats in Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat as Eco Sensitive Areas (ESA), marking a significant step towards strengthening environmental protection in one of the world’s most important biodiversity regions.
The proposal aims to safeguard ecologically fragile landscapes spread across the Western Ghats, a mountain range recognised globally for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. The planned notification is based on recommendations made by a committee headed by former ISRO chairman K. Kasturirangan.
Initially, the proposal covered approximately 56,000 square kilometres across six states, including Gujarat, Goa, Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. However, with Kerala and Karnataka continuing to express concerns over the plan, the government has decided to move forward with the three states that have agreed to the proposal.
Once notified, the designated Eco Sensitive Areas will face restrictions on activities considered harmful to the environment. Mining, quarrying, coal based power plants, highly polluting industries and large scale construction projects will be prohibited. The objective is to preserve the ecological balance of the region while promoting sustainable development and protecting the livelihoods of local communities.
Kerala and Karnataka have raised reservations about the proposed restrictions. Kerala has sought a reduction in the extent of the area identified for protection, citing concerns over the large population residing within and around the proposed zones. Karnataka, meanwhile, has questioned the overall rationale behind the exercise and expressed concerns about limitations on mining and industrial activities.
Despite these objections, the notification of Eco Sensitive Areas in Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat is expected to provide stronger legal protection to significant portions of the Western Ghats.
Recognised among the world’s eight most important biodiversity hotspots, the Western Ghats are home to hundreds of rare and threatened plant and animal species. The region contains some of the finest tropical evergreen forests and supports a remarkable variety of wildlife, making its conservation a priority for environmental planners and conservationists alike.
The latest move revives a process that began in 2014, when the Environment Ministry first proposed special protection measures for ecologically sensitive parts of the Western Ghats.
