The National Green Tribunal on Thursday came down heavily against the Assam Government over a CAG report which has detected a number of lapses and anomalies by the State in maintenance of the Kaziranga National Park. The Green Bench, headed by Justice UD Salvi, said non declaration of the ESZ for such a long period of time had a direct bearing on such activities detrimental to the wellbeing of animals.
In keeping with the CAG report, it also recommended investigation into construction of resorts and hotels without permission of the National Park authorities and encroachment of Government land. “The entire stretch of NH-37 from Burapahar to Bokakhat needs to be freed from illegal encroachments and dhabas, parking of trucks need to be cleared immediately,” the Bench said.
The panel further noted that there is a complete inaction by the State of Assam, as far as protection of rhinos are concerned. The CAG report should have been a wake-up call for the Government to take urgent action, however, the same apathy continues and Government seems to be happy with increase in rhino population without considering the warning signs of the impending doom. The tribunal directed the Assam Government to take positive action in respect of the recommendations made in the report and place the action taken report before the tribunal within three weeks. The matter is fixed for next hearing on May 26.