Protecting the Western Ghats: New ESA Draft Notification Issued Amidst Calls from Three States for Shrinking Eco-Sensitive Areas

On Friday, the Central government issued the sixth iteration of a draft notification, designating 56,825.7 sq km of the Western Ghats as an ecologically sensitive area (ESA). This crucial ecological hotspot spans the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

The renewed notification follows the lapse of the previous draft, issued on July 6, 2022. Despite extensive deliberations, the Centre and these six states have yet to reach a consensus on the precise extent of the ESA demarcation. The proposed ESAs cover:

Gujarat: 449 sq km

Maharashtra: 17,340 sq km

Goa: 1,461 sq km

Karnataka: 20,668 sq km

Tamil Nadu: 6,914 sq km

Kerala: 9,993.7 sq km

The Centre has provided a 60-day window for the submission of objections and suggestions regarding this draft.

The journey to this draft began in March 2014, with recommendations from the High-Level Working Group (HLWG), established by the Centre in 2012. The HLWG, led by space scientist Dr. K Kasturirangan, reviewed a report by an expert committee headed by senior ecologist Dr. Madhav Gadgil. To further refine these suggestions, the Centre formed another panel in April 2022, aiming to balance conservation efforts with the rights, needs, and developmental aspirations of the region.

The latest draft notification is the result of 10 meetings between the Centre, the expert panel, and the states concerned, discussing the fifth draft notification in various forums. Notably, three states have sought a reduction in the designated eco-sensitive areas, adding complexity to the ongoing discussions.

As we move forward, the protection of the Western Ghats remains a top priority. Stakeholder engagement and consensus are critical to ensuring the sustainable development and preservation of this vital ecological region.