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Western Ghats May Get Ecologically Sensitive Area Notifications
The Western Ghats may soon receive stronger legal protection through notification of Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in at least 3 states. The news focuses on ESA notification as a legal mechanism under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, to provide special environmental protection to identified regions.
Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) / Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs):
| Dimension | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Also called | Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) are also called Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs). |
| Definition | ESAs are designated regions identified for special environmental protection because of rich biodiversity, fragile ecosystems, or critical ecological functions. |
| Legal basis | The Central Government can notify certain areas as Ecologically Sensitive Areas under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. |
| Regulatory framework for activities | Under ESA recognition, certain activities are prohibited, some are tightly regulated, and others are encouraged to ensure development does not come at the cost of ecological damage. |
| Project scrutiny | ESA status provides for development projects in the area being subject to stricter environmental scrutiny. |
| Significance for protected areas | Eco-Sensitive Zones are created as “shock absorbers” for protected areas to minimize negative impact on fragile ecosystems by certain nearby human activities. |
| Spatial role | These areas are meant to act as a transition zone from areas requiring higher protection to those requiring lesser protection. |
| Current trigger (Western Ghats) | The Western Ghats may soon receive stronger legal protection through ESA notifications in at least 3 states. |