Forest Department Circular Allegedly Seeks To Regularise Illegal Hotel Constructions In Gir, Sparks Row
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
A controversial circular issued by the state's top forest authority has triggered a fresh row over illegal constructions and commercial activities in the eco-sensitive zone of Sasan Gir, the last refuge of the Asiatic lion.
The circular has allegedly raised concerns that hotel and resort owners could be indirectly provided an opportunity to regularise illegal constructions and encroachments in the sensitive region.
The controversy is particularly significant as the issue of illegal constructions and violations of environmental norms in the area is already under consideration before the Gujarat High Court.
Circular Raises Questions Amid High Court Proceedings
The Gujarat High Court has taken a strict view of illegal constructions and commercial activities in the eco-sensitive zone around Sasan Gir.
Following the court's observations, action was recently initiated against around 380 allegedly illegal hotels and resorts, including sealing and demolition proceedings.
Amid this backdrop, a letter issued by Dr Jaypal Singh, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), in response to demands raised by hotel owners has come under scrutiny.
Critics have alleged that the circular could amount to an attempt to bypass the ongoing court proceedings and provide a backdoor route for regularising illegal constructions.
Concerns Over Gir’s Eco-Sensitive Zone
The Sasan Gir region is considered highly sensitive from an environmental and wildlife conservation perspective as it is the primary habitat of the Asiatic lion.
The forest department is responsible for protecting the region's forests and wildlife. However, the circular has sparked allegations that the department's approach could benefit hotel and resort owners at the expense of environmental regulations.
The issue of illegal constructions and alleged violations in the Gir eco-sensitive zone remains before the High Court.
The latest development has therefore raised questions over whether the circular could conflict with the ongoing judicial proceedings and existing directions concerning illegal hotels, resorts and commercial activities in the region.
