Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs), at their core, are areas designated to protect the environment and wildlife, without impeding the day-to-day activities of citizens. According to the National Wildlife Action Plan (2002-2016) by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), ESZs are usually located within 10 km of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
However, the extent of ESZs is not always uniform across the country; it can vary based on ecological significance of the surrounding areas. For example, some “sensitive corridors” that hold larger ecological importance may extend beyond 10km.
Changes in Supreme Court’s Stance on ESZs
Originally, a Supreme Court judgment in June 2022 mandated a minimum of one kilometer as ESZ around protected forests, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries. The aim was to act as a “shock absorber” against harmful activities like encroachment, illegal mining, construction, and more.
However, this directive faced backlash from Centre and States. Their primary argument was that such a uniform rule is impractical due to varying geographical features, population densities, land use patterns, and other factors specific to each protected area. This order also faced criticism for potentially hampering development and conservation activities.
Subsequently, the Supreme Court revised its judgment, agreeing with the arguments put forth by the Centre and the States. It acknowledged the need for context-specific ESZs, and stated that strictly enforcing the earlier order would cause more harm than good. Consequently, the court ruled that Centre and the States should declare ESZs as per their own proposals or as per recommendations of expert committees within 6 months. However, mining within national parks/wildlife sanctuaries and within 1 km of their boundaries remains prohibited.
Regulations and Activities in ESZs
ESZs uphold certain prohibitions to ensure environmental protection. Activities like commercial mining, operating sawmills, establishing pollution-causing industries, creating major hydroelectric projects, and commercial exploitation of wood are not allowed.
On the other hand, these zones promote activities contributing to sustainability. Agricultural or horticultural practices, rainwater harvesting, organic farming, use of renewable energy sources, and adoption of green technology are encouraged.
Significance and Challenges of ESZs
The main purpose of ESZs is to support in-situ conservation and minimize forest depletion and man-animal conflict. They also aim to reduce the negative impact on fragile ecosystems.
However, ESZs face some considerable challenges. Climate change results in land, water, and ecological stress on these zones. Moreover, their establishment sometimes imposes restrictions that can impact the lives and livelihoods of forest communities.
Way Forward for ESZs
ESZs cannot follow the same pattern across different regions. Therefore, the updated Supreme Court order emphasizes tailoring ESZs according to specific protected areas. This approach ensures minimal adverse impacts on residents living around these zones.
Stakeholder consultation is crucial in deciding the geographical extent of ESZs. This involves local communities, forest departments, environmentalists, and experts to ensure fair decision-making.
Balancing conservation and development is another pivotal aspect. ESZs should not hamper citizens’ day-to-day activities; hence, eco-tourism, sustainable livelihoods, and green infrastructure should be promoted.
Finally, strict monitoring and enforcement need to be applied to ensure compliance with rules and prevent illegal activities or violations within ESZs.