The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has revised its earlier notification regarding the Western Ghats, now designating 60,000 sq km as eco-sensitive areas (ESA) and allowing the development of township projects covering up to 50 hectares in the region.
Previously, the ministry had banned construction exceeding 20,000 sq mt for township and area development projects. However, with the issuance of this latest notice permitting 50 hectares, the prior restrictions have been officially lifted.
Environmental activists, opposing the Centre’s adjustment in policy, argue that this change undermines existing efforts aimed at safeguarding the ecology of this critical area. They express concerns that this move signals an initial step leading to further developments within forested regions.
Furthermore, it is believed that this new notification jeopardizes previously established protective measures. A petition has been filed in the Bombay High Court questioning the designation of the Sawantwadi-Dodamarg wildlife corridor as an eco-sensitive zone.
With the backing of this notice, developers are now seeking to initiate townships across the Western Ghats, which poses a significant risk to this fragile ecosystem.
An NGO has accused the Union Government of being unduly influenced by construction interests, prioritizing development over the welfare of local residents. In response, environmentalists are mobilizing further by preparing to challenge this notification in the Supreme Court of India.
Additionally, they are urging the government to empower existing villages with protective responsibilities for this essential ecological habitat.