ESA protests driven by ‘hidden agenda’, allege environmental groups
Environmental groups assert that the ESA aims to protect biodiversity, mitigate climate change. The restrictions will preserve ecosystems and safeguard communities from natural disasters without disrupting local livelihoods.
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Context
The issued the seventh draft notification to declare parts of the Western Ghats as an (ESA). This has sparked protests in states like Kerala, prompting environmental groups to allege that the agitation is driven by vested interests, such as mining and land mafias, rather than genuine concerns of local communities.
UPSC Perspectives
Environmental
The designation of an (ESA) is a crucial regulatory tool used to protect biodiversity hotspots from the adverse impacts of unregulated development. The Western Ghats, recognized globally for their high endemism and biodiversity, require such protection. The on the Western Ghats differentiated between 'natural landscapes' (biologically rich areas) and 'cultural landscapes' (human-dominated areas). The proposed ESA regulations primarily target large-scale disruptive activities like mining, quarrying, red-category polluting industries, and major construction projects. This approach aims to achieve sustainable development by preventing ecological damage while allowing existing small-scale agriculture and residences to continue. Furthermore, protecting these areas acts as a 'shock absorber' against climate change impacts, safeguarding river basins and ensuring long-term water availability.
Governance
The ongoing controversy highlights the challenges in implementing environmental regulations in heavily populated areas. The government faces a delicate balancing act between ecological conservation and the livelihoods of local communities. The protests often stem from misinformation or a lack of understanding of the regulations, as environmental groups argue that the ESA notification does not entail the eviction of people or the prohibition of traditional agriculture. The situation underscores the need for effective stakeholder consultation and clear communication to dispel myths propagated by vested interests. The repeated issuance of draft notifications (this is the seventh) indicates the difficulty in achieving consensus among the six states sharing the Western Ghats (, , , , , and ).
Geographical
The Western Ghats play a critical role in determining the climate and weather patterns of the Indian peninsula. They act as a barrier to the southwest monsoon winds, resulting in heavy rainfall on the windward side and a rain shadow effect on the leeward side. The degradation of this ecosystem increases the vulnerability of the region to natural disasters. The recent Wayanad landslides serve as a grim reminder of the consequences of ecological imbalance in such sensitive terrains. Identifying and protecting ESAs is vital for effective disaster management and mitigating the risks of floods and landslides. The preservation of the natural landscape, with its dense forests and complex topography, is essential for maintaining the ecological stability of the entire region.