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The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered a detailed investigation into alleged illegal construction of resorts, hotels, and guest houses within the one kilometre eco sensitive zone of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve in Uttar Pradesh. A three member joint committee has been tasked with inspecting the sites and reporting back within 10 weeks. The move follows concerns over continued unregulated development despite earlier notices. Authorities warn that such constructions can harm wildlife, disrupt habitats, and increase human wildlife conflicts. The next hearing is scheduled for April.
The National Green Tribunal has directed a thorough investigation into the alleged illegal construction of resorts, hotels, and guest houses within the one kilometre eco sensitive zone (ESZ) of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve in Uttar Pradesh. This action comes after reports indicated that construction activities continued despite earlier notices, potentially violating environmental norms and disrupting wildlife habitats. The NGT has highlighted concerns that unregulated development could increase human wildlife conflicts and affect the ecological balance in this protected area. Advertisement
A three member joint committee has been formed for the inspection, including representatives from the National Tiger Conservation Authority, the Uttar Pradesh forest department, and coordination by the Pilibhit district magistrate. The committee has been instructed to examine all identified sites, verify compliance with environmental and wildlife protection norms, and submit a detailed report within approximately 10 weeks. The tribunal has scheduled the next hearing for April.
This issue dates back to at least late 2021, when a landowner received a notice after beginning construction of a farmhouse allegedly intended to operate as a resort within the ESZ. Reports indicate that nearly 50 resorts, hotels, and guest houses may have been developed near the reserve's boundary, raising concerns about violations of sustainable eco tourism and wildlife protection norms under Supreme Court and Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) regulations.
The matter was brought before the NGT by an advocate who had previously approached authorities including the divisional forest officer and MoEFCC, but received limited response. He noted that buildings, roads, and tourism infrastructure in eco sensitive zones can fragment habitats, disrupt animal corridors, cause pollution, and lead to ecological degradation. The NGT has now emphasized that these allegations will be investigated thoroughly.
This action is part of broader conservation enforcement in the region. Earlier, authorities penalized safari vehicle owners for violating rules inside the reserve's core areas. In mid 2025, officials also took steps against encroachment on the River Mala bed, a critical water source for Pilibhit Tiger Reserve. These measures underline ongoing efforts to ensure that development activities comply with environmental and wildlife protection standards.
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