Recently, the Hasdeo Arand forest in Chhattisgarh has become a hotspot for conflict between local villagers, environmental activists, and mining authorities. The recent clashes, which resulted in injuries to police personnel and arrests of tribal individuals, highlight the escalating tensions surrounding coal mining in this biodiverse region. The ongoing protests reflect deep concerns about environmental degradation, loss of livelihood, and the rights of indigenous communities.
What is the Hasdeo Arand Forest?
The Hasdeo Arand forest, known as the “lungs of Chhattisgarh,” is one of the largest unfragmented forests in Central India, spanning approximately 1,879.6 square kilometres across the Sarguja, Korba, and Surajpur districts. It boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including 640 floral species and 128 medicinal plants, as reported by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). This forest is critical for the survival of various protected species, including elephants, leopards, and Indian pangolins, making it a vital ecological corridor.
Significance of Mining in Hasdeo
The Hasdeo-Arand Coalfield (HAC) contains coal reserves, with 23 identified coal blocks. Mining operations have been auctioned to various companies, including Adani Enterprises. The extraction of coal is seen as economically beneficial; however, it poses serious threats to the local ecosystem and the livelihoods of tribal communities who depend on the forest for sustenance and income.
Opposition to Mining
Local villagers and activists vehemently oppose mining in Hasdeo due to its potential to devastate their environment and displace communities. They argue that mining will lead to the destruction of their homes and the natural resources they rely on. Allegations have also surfaced regarding the use of fraudulent documents to obtain environmental clearances, raising questions about the legitimacy of the mining operations.
Current Status of Mining Operations
Mining activities are ongoing in the PEKB phase 2, Parsa, and Kete extension coal blocks. Since 2012, deforestation has occurred, with activists estimating that over 1.5 lakh trees have been cut down, contrary to official figures. The government has stated that over 11.65 lakh trees have been planted as compensation, yet the adequacy and effectiveness of these reforestation efforts remain contentious.
Political Stance on Mining
The political landscape surrounding Hasdeo mining is complex. The Congress party’s position has shifted, with previous support for mining now evolving into calls for its cancellation due to public protests. The ruling BJP has stated that any mining activities will proceed only with the consent of the local population, indicating a need for dialogue and consideration of local sentiments.
Role of Activist Groups
Various organisations, including Chhattisgarh Bachao Andolan and Hasdeo Bachao Sangharsh Samiti, are at the forefront of the protests. These groups advocate for the rights of tribal communities and the protection of the forest, denoting the socio-environmental implications of mining activities. Their efforts have garnered media attention and public support, further energising the movement against coal mining in Hasdeo.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the ecological significance of the Hasdeo Arand forest and its role in biodiversity conservation.
- Evaluate the socio-economic impacts of coal mining on the tribal communities in Chhattisgarh.
- What are the legal frameworks governing environmental protection in India, and how do they apply to the Hasdeo Arand situation?
- Analyse the political responses to environmental protests in India, with a focus on the Hasdeo case.
- Examine the effectiveness of compensatory afforestation as a strategy for mitigating deforestation impacts in mining areas.
