The Bhagirathi eco-sensitive zone notification has not been successfully implemented in the Uttarkashi due to the failure of the State Government to involve residents of the area and provide them correct information about the implications of the notification.
Environmental activists in the region believe that proper implementation of the ESZ notification could make it a commendable example in the efforts to ensure the free flow and purity of the national river Ganga.
However, the political executive appears to be keeping the stakeholders in dark about the provisions in the notification to generate opposition against the notification, they state.
According to environmental activist Suresh Bhai of Nadi Bachao Abhiyan, the major flood in 1977, earthquake in 1991 and floods in later years had a major impact on the geographical and societal aspects in Uttarkashi region.
The income of the people from agriculture, animal husbandry and Gangotri pilgrimage was substantially decreased due to the impact of disasters. The construction of large tunnel-based power projects in the region damaged the livelihoods of the locals by adversely affecting the water sources, land and forests of the villages.
He states that the Central Government had in its December 18, 2012 notification declared 4179 square kilometre area from Gaumukh to Uttarkashi an eco-sensitive zone to protect the Ganga in the area of its origin.
In order to implement this notification, the State was supposed to prepare the zonal masterplan in consultation with the 88 Gram Panchayats in the affected area to protect both the ecology and livelihoods of the locals. The ESZ notification dwells on methods for protecting villages settled on geologically sensitive mountain slopes.
Additionally, plans are also to be drafted for facilitating plastic recycling and treatment plant, development of rainwater harvesting, organic farming, green industry, trekking, micro hydro power projects, solar power generation. Women and Gram Sabhas/Panchayats are to play important roles in the execution of these works.
The notification also talks of ensuring the flow of rivers and streams, encouraging traditional architecture and preservation of natural and man-made heritage like confluence of rivers, scenic spots, waterfalls, green areas, temples and sites of historical crafts.
The notification does not prohibit the development of the Gangotri national highway or construction of rural roads while large dams, commercial logging and large mining works are prohibited. “The people of this region have a history of protesting against environmental destruction. However, the State Government and dam supporters are opposing the ESZ notification.
They aver that the ESZ will prevent developmental works with the Tehri MP Mala Rajya laxmi also reportedly talking about putting the issue on the backburner. The failure of the authorities to inform the public properly about the ESZ notification is hampering its implementation,” said Suresh Bhai.