The Assam Chief Minister said the Supreme Court order does not immediately reduce the existing 10-km provision and that the notified distance will apply once the state finalises the ESZ
Guwahti: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday, August 12, clarified that the existing 10-km provision for the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around Kaziranga National Park will remain in force until the state government formally notifies a new zone.
Addressing a press conference, the Chief Minister said the Supreme Court’s direction for an ESZ within one kilometre does not amount to an immediate reduction of the existing provision. “The Supreme Court has said that the Eco-Sensitive Zone will be within 1 kilometre. This is not about reducing the existing zone. Until the State Government notifies the Eco-Sensitive Zone, the 10-kilometre provision will continue to apply,” he said.
The Chief Minister said a 10-km zone could affect populated areas such as Kaliabor, Dabhaka, Jakhalabandha and Bokakhat, creating difficulties for residents. He urged people to read the Supreme Court order carefully instead of drawing conclusions from incomplete information.
Explaining the notification process, he said the Forest Department would prepare the proposal before it is sent to the Centre and subsequently placed before the National Board for Wildlife.
The Chief Minister said one kilometre was the normal approach, though the zone could extend up to three kilometres depending on circumstances. He cited the recently notified one-km ESZ around Deepor Beel as an example.
Also Read: Dhemaji Shuts Down After Border Firing Leaves 11 Villagers Injured
