Battle Over Satkosia Tiger Reserve: Eco-Tourism vs. Conservation
The Supreme Court will hear a plea concerning controversial construction proposals within Odisha's Satkosia Tiger Reserve. The plea challenges local permissions for eco-tourism developments, alleging violations of wildlife protection laws and ecological integrity. Urging stricter enforcement of buffer zones as mandated by national conservation directives, the plea highlights legal and environmental concerns.
- Country:
- India
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court agreed to entertain a plea addressing concerns over the proposed construction within Odisha's Satkosia Tiger Reserve. The plea, presented by advocate Gaurav Kumar Bansal, calls into question the permissions granted for eco-tourism developments in this ecologically sensitive area.
The Supreme Court bench, headed by Chief Justice B R Gavai, along with Justices K Vinod Chandran and Joymalya Bagchi, acknowledged the gravity of the issue and scheduled it for hearing next week. Bansal emphasized the ecological risks involved, criticizing the district collector's approval for eco-tourism projects in the reserve.
The Satkosia Tiger Reserve, a haven for tigers, elephants, and other endangered species, faces potential threats from unauthorized constructions. The plea advocates for the enforcement of mandatory eco-sensitive zones around the reserve, in line with directives from the National Tiger Conservation Authority. The petitioner argues that current permissions violate multiple conservation laws and compromise the reserve's ecological integrity.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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