The Union environment ministry has issued a draft notification to expand Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in the Western Ghats, now covering 1,461 square kilometres and impacting 108 villages-up from the previous proposal of 99 villages. This fourth draft opens a 60-day public feedback window, inviting input from stakeholders. The Goa state government had urged a restriction to 63 villages, citing economic concerns, particularly over a proposed ban on mining in these areas. The final decision will weigh environmental protection against local economic impacts, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing conservation with livelihood needs.
The Union environment ministry has released a draft notification to extend the designation of Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in the Western Ghats, affecting 108 villages over a total area of 1,461 square kilometres. This represents a significant increase from the previous proposal of 99 villages. In a contrasting stance, the Goa state government had urged the Union government to restrict this designation to only 63 villages, citing concerns over potential economic impacts.
The latest draft is the fourth such notification from the Union government, indicating ongoing discussions regarding environmental protection and land use in this biodiversity-rich region. According to a senior official, the newly released map now aligns with the comprehensive list of identified villages. This expansion includes areas across the talukas of Sattari, Canacona, Dharbandora, and Sanguem.
The draft notification opens a 60-day window for public feedback, allowing residents and stakeholders to voice any objections or suggestions. This process is crucial, as the final decision will consider recommendations from the state government, input from local communities, as well as advice from an expert committee on Ecologically Sensitive Areas. The ministry has clarified that the final list will be determined after considering these various factors.
One of the most significant aspects of the proposed ESA designation is the complete prohibition on mining, quarrying, and sand mining within these sensitive areas. All existing operations will need to cease within five years or upon the expiry of current mining leases. This ban aims to preserve the region's rich biodiversity and ecological integrity. However, the state government has expressed concern that larger EPS designations could lead to significant job losses and economic fallout for communities reliant on these industries.
In its correspondence with the Union government, the Goa state administration pointed out that many affected villages contain both major and minor mineral resources that have been leased with valid environmental clearances. This indicates a potential conflict between environmental protection measures and the livelihood of local residents engaged in mining activities. The government fears that excessive restrictions could exacerbate unemployment and economic hardship in these regions, leading to increased frustration among local populations.
Activists and environmentalists have long recognized the importance of the Western Ghats as a biodiversity hotspot, housing numerous endemic species and critical ecosystems. The region is already facing pressures from development, deforestation, and climate change. Therefore, while many support the expansion of ESAs for ecological preservation, finding a balance between environmental conservation and local economic interests remains a significant challenge.
As this draft proposal moves forward, it will be crucial for both the Union and state governments to engage in constructive dialogue with local communities, paving the way for sustainable solutions. The outcome of this notification process will not only shape the future of the Western Ghats but also set a precedent for how economic activities are balanced with environmental conservation in India's ecologically sensitive regions.
Public feedback on this draft notification is vital for ensuring that diverse viewpoints are considered. Residents and interested parties can submit their proposals and objections to the Union environment secretary within the specified timeframe. The next steps will depend on the feedback received and the ongoing deliberations between the state and central governments regarding the fate of these ecologically significant areas in Goa.
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