The devastation which followed heavy rains in Uttarakhand has elicited focus on the importance of demarcating eco-sensitive zones which is necessary to prevent the unscientific and rampant construction that has exacerbated the damage wreaked by disaster.
The State Forest department is drafting the eco-sensitive zone proposals to be submitted to the Ministry of Environment and Forests by July 31. Now the department officials are stating that while public expectations should also be honoured it is also vital to preserve the forests and environment for the ecological security of Uttarakhand and the nation.
The State principal chief conservator of forests, Raghu Bir Singh Rawat said through the implementation of the eco-sensitive zones the Supreme Court wanted to prevent unplanned construction in ecologically sensitive regions to prevent the type of situation experienced in Uttarakhand. “We must honour public expectations but it is not logical to expect facilities like motor roads and other constructions in ecologically sensitive regions at an altitude of 12,000 feet like Kedarnath. The Forest department is often accused of being opposed to development but it is vital to ensure that the forests and environment are protected,” said Rawat responding to reports that some of the stranded pilgrims had taken shelter from the elements in the forests near Gaurikund.
The deadline for submitting proposals for eco-sensitive zones around national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to the Ministry of Environment and Forests has been extended at least twice in the past and is now fixed at July 31.