NEWS: The Centre is preparing to notify over 56,000 sq km of the Western Ghats as Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA)à To strengthen protection of one of India's most important biodiversity regions.

ABOUT

• The proposal is based primarily on the K. Kasturirangan Committee Report (2013).
• Covers parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
• ESAs are notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
• Aimà Protect ecologically fragile regions, biodiversity, forests, water resources, and ecological connectivity.

BACKGROUND

• Madhav Gadgil Committee (2011)à Recommended stronger protection for the entire Western Ghats.
• Due to state concerns, the Kasturirangan Committee (2013) reduced the area by distinguishing: Natural Landscapes, cultural Landscapes (human settlements/agriculture)

RESTRICTED ACTIVITIES

• New mining and quarrying projects.
• Thermal power plants.
• Red-category highly polluting industries.
• Large construction projects (20,000 sq m and above).

PERMITTED ACTIVITIES

• Organic farming.
• Rainwater harvesting.
• Green technologies.
• Sustainable local livelihood activities.

SIGNIFICANCE

• Western Ghats is a Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• One of the world's eight hottest biodiversity hotspots.
• Known as the "Water Tower of Peninsular India".
• Influences the Indian monsoon and feeds major rivers such as the Godavari River, Krishna River, and Kaveri River