Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 15 Oct: A meeting regarding the proposed eco-sensitive zones for Rajaji National Park and Valley of Flowers National Park was held at the Secretariat on Thursday under the chairmanship of Principal Secretary, Environment Protection and Climate Change, R.K. Sudhanshu. The meeting discussed various issues, including the area and extent of the proposed eco-sensitive zones for the national parks, the zonal master plan, the monitoring committee, and the prohibited, regulated, and permitted activities within the zones.
The Principal Secretary directed officials to thoroughly examine all aspects of the proposals and ensure necessary action. He also directed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) to take necessary action regarding various activities within the zones, and to prepare proposals after obtaining reports from the District Magistrates of the respective districts.
Regarding the proposed eco-sensitive zone for Rajaji National Park, the Principal Secretary directed that guidance be sought in the upcoming Cabinet meeting to resolve the issues related to the zone. Furthermore, in accordance with the Supreme Court’s directives, legal advice should be obtained and a response regarding the current state of the state should be prepared and submitted within a week.
While reviewing the proposed eco-sensitive zone for the Valley of Flowers National Park, the Principal Secretary directed that special attention be paid to the movement and tourist carrying capacity of the area. He directed that proposals be prepared after obtaining reports from the concerned District Magistrate, the Tourism Department, and other relevant departments.
The Principal Secretary emphasized that proposals should be thoroughly evaluated, taking into account the geographical conditions, environmental sensitivity, and local needs of the area. A balance should be maintained between ecological conservation and local public sentiments while preparing proposals for the eco-sensitive zone, so that local interests are adequately addressed along with environmental protection.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Forest C. Ravishankar, PCCF (Wildlife) Neena Grewal, CCF Saket, Director, Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Pankaj Kumar, DFO, Kedarnath, Rajat Suman, Additional Secretary Abhishek Ruhela, Additional Director, Tourism, Poonam Chand, and other relevant officials.
