A luxurious Taj Amer hotel in Jaipur could be demolished after the Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary's eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) monitoring committee ordered its removal. Allegedly occupying a protected zone, the hotel, managed by Kanha Hotels and Spa Pvt Ltd, faces accusations of illegal construction. The National Board for Wildlife rejected the hotel's application in February 2024, and operations began in 2023. Despite claims of having necessary approvals, the committee's order calls for action by the Jaipur Development Authority. This case highlights the need for strict adherence to environmental regulations when developing in ecologically sensitive areas.
A luxurious hotel operating under the Taj Amer brand in Jaipur could face demolition after the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) monitoring committee of the Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary ordered its removal. The committee alleges that the hotel, built on land managed by Kanha Hotels and Spa Pvt Ltd, is illegally occupying a sensitive zone within the protected wildlife sanctuary.
The controversy began in February 2024 when the National Board for Wildlife's (NBWL) standing committee, the authority responsible for granting wildlife clearance, rejected the hotel project's application. While the hotel building's construction was completed several years ago, it only began operations in 2023.
Following the NBWL's decision, the ESZ monitoring committee, tasked with overseeing activities within the protected zone, directed the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) to take action against the hotel. This action could involve the demolition of the entire structure.
This case underscores the critical importance of following strict environmental regulations when developing properties in ecologically sensitive areas. Eco-sensitive zones (ESZs) are designated areas surrounding wildlife sanctuaries and national parks to provide additional protection for wildlife habitats and surrounding ecosystems. Any construction within an ESZ requires specific permissions and must adhere to stringent environmental guidelines.
Environmental activists argue that allowing such constructions within an ESZ sets a dangerous precedent. They believe this case should serve as a clear warning to developers about the consequences of violating wildlife protection rules. Green activist Rajendra Tiwari, who brought the issue to light, emphasized that the ESZ notification prohibits new commercial hotels and resorts within one kilometer of the protected area's boundary.
The hotel management, under the Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL), a Tata Group company, maintains that they obtained all necessary approvals from the relevant government authorities. However, the NBWL's decision and the ESZ committee's order cast doubt on the validity of those approvals. The Jaipur Development Authority now holds the responsibility of enforcing the committee's order.
This case serves as a cautionary tale for real estate developers considering projects near protected areas or within ESZs. Developers need to conduct thorough research on environmental regulations and obtain all necessary environmental clearances before starting construction.
The final outcome of this case remains to be seen. However, it has sparked critical discussions about the importance of striking a balance between development and environmental protection. Real estate developers operating near protected areas will be closely watching how this unfolds as it could set a precedent for future projects.
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