Assam CM defends move to reduce Kaziranga Eco-Sensitive Zone to 1 km from the default 10 km
Retaining a default 10-km Eco-Sensitive Zone around Kaziranga could affect several populated areas, Himanta Biswa Sarma says
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Context
The Assam government intends to notify a 1-km Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around the , replacing the default 10-km buffer. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma cited a ruling permitting a 1-km ESZ, arguing that maintaining the 10-km zone would severely impact surrounding communities. This highlights the ongoing tension between wildlife conservation and the livelihood needs of local populations residing near protected areas.
UPSC Perspectives
Environmental
Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) are notified under the to act as a 'shock absorber' for protected areas by regulating and managing activities around them. They serve as transition zones from areas of high protection to those involving lesser protection. While the issued guidelines in 2011 suggesting a general 10-km limit, this can be site-specific. The reduction of the ESZ around to 1 km raises concerns about increased human activity, noise pollution, and potential habitat fragmentation for the one-horned rhinoceros and other wildlife. For UPSC Prelims, candidates should understand the purpose of ESZs, the prohibited (e.g., commercial mining), regulated (e.g., felling of trees), and permitted (e.g., ongoing agricultural practices) activities within these zones.
Polity
The notification of ESZs involves a cooperative, albeit sometimes contentious, process between the state and the central government. As per the procedure, the State Forest Department prepares a site-specific proposal, which is then forwarded to the Centre for final approval by the . The article references crucial judicial interventions: a June 2022 order mandating a minimum 1-km ESZ around all national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, and its subsequent modification in April 2023. These rulings illustrate the judicial review power over environmental policy to ensure conservation isn't compromised while acknowledging developmental needs. Aspirants should be familiar with the composition and functions of the (chaired by the Prime Minister) and the statutory backing for ESZs.
Geographical
, a , is located in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam, primarily shaped by the Brahmaputra River. It represents one of the last unmodified natural areas in the North-Eastern region. Similarly, the article mentions , a near Guwahati, highlighting the ecological significance of wetlands in the region. The geographical challenge lies in demarcating boundaries that protect core habitats while accommodating dense human settlements, particularly in fertile floodplains where agriculture and urbanization pressure natural ecosystems. Candidates should map key national parks in Assam and understand the criteria for designation as a or .