‘Only mining, large industries prohibited’ in Gir Eco-Sensitive Zone
Updated: Oct 19th, 2024
After the state declared 2,061.77 square kilometres around the Gir Protected Area as an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ), the locals were protesting claiming impending problems during any construction in the area.
However, the Gujarat government cleared the air regarding the rules of the ESZ.
To address concerns and provide clarity, a meeting was organised by Rajdeepsinh Zala, Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) of Gir (East) and the Dhari district officer at the Ambardi Safari Park in Dhari.
The purpose of the meeting was to inform the farmers and locals about the proposed ESZ and its implications.
Zala clarified that there are no restrictions on agricultural activities, digging wells, or any other village-level activities. This is to ensure that the farmers and residents of the proposed zone are not adversely affected.
Only large industries and mining activities that spread air, water, land, and noise pollution are prohibited in the ESZ.
He suggested villagers ignore wrong recommendations and statements.
“The proposed ESZ will cover a total of 196 villages, while under the current rules, 389 villages are included in the protected area and its surroundings,” he said.
As per him, with the implementation of the ESZ, the number of villages is decreasing.
He added that an oral order of Gujarat High Court suggested the government submit a fresh proposal regarding the declaration of an ESZ around the Gir, Paniya, and Mitiyala protected areas.
According to a Supreme Court directive, an ESZ should maintain 2.78 km of minimum area.
The Gir Eco-Sensitive Zone will extend from 2.78 km to 9.50 km around the sanctuary, covering parts of Junagadh, Amreli, and Gir Somnath districts in Gujarat.
Also read:
Gir Eco-Sensitive Zone issue becomes a hot potato for Gujarat government
Forest dept distributes leaflets to clarify misconceptions on Gir ESZ
Your privacy
By clicking “Accept all cookies”, you agree Gujarat Samachar can store cookies on your device and disclose information in accordance with our Cookie Policy