The Centre’s renewed push to designate parts of the Western Ghats as an Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) has once again brought conservation and livelihood concerns to the forefront in Kerala. The latest draft notification, issued on July 27, proposes an ESA covering 9,993.7 sq km across 131 villages in the state, including forest and non-forest areas.
The proposal is part of a long-running effort to strengthen environmental protection across the Western Ghats, a biodiversity-rich mountain system that supports forests, wildlife and important water resources. The Centre’s draft allows existing farming to continue, but several activities and development projects would be subject to environmental regulations within the ESA. (Onmanorama)
Kerala has sought changes to the proposed boundaries. The state wants the ESA reduced to around 8,590.69 sq km and limited to 98 villages, arguing that densely populated settlements, plantations and agricultural areas should be excluded. The state is also preparing its response before the September 25 deadline for objections and suggestions. (South First)
Farmers and residents in high-range districts have expressed concerns about possible restrictions on agriculture, construction and infrastructure development. Environmental groups, meanwhile, have called for strong protection of the Western Ghats and its fragile ecosystems. (South First)
News as reported
