Western Ghats ESA: Eco-Sensitive Area Notification Explained

UPSC Mapping

Prelims	Western Ghats, Eco-Sensitive Areas, Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
Mains	GS Paper III – Environment, Biodiversity and Conservation

Article

Western Ghats ESA is once again in focus after the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) issued a fresh draft notification proposing to declare 56,825 sq km of the Western Ghats as an Eco-Sensitive Area (ESA). The proposal seeks to balance environmental conservation with sustainable development while inviting objections and suggestions from stakeholders. Aspirants should also revise related environment topics through the daily current affairs archive.

What is Western Ghats ESA?

Western Ghats ESA refers to ecologically fragile regions identified for additional environmental safeguards under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. These areas act as buffer zones around biodiversity-rich landscapes where environmentally harmful activities are regulated.

The proposed notification covers parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It aims to conserve forests, wildlife, rivers and fragile ecosystems while permitting sustainable livelihoods and regulated development.

Why is Western Ghats ESA in News?

The Centre has issued another draft notification after earlier notifications expired without final implementation. The proposal invites public objections before finalising the notification.

The issue remains contentious because several state governments have expressed concerns regarding developmental restrictions, plantation activities and local livelihoods. Official details are available through the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Key Features

• Environmental protection: Ecologically sensitive landscapes receive additional safeguards against environmentally harmful activities.
• Restricted activities: Mining, quarrying, thermal power plants and highly polluting red-category industries face restrictions.
• Biodiversity conservation: The proposal protects one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots and a UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
• Sustainable development: Agriculture, plantations and regulated economic activities continue subject to applicable norms.
• Climate resilience: Conserving forests improves water security, disaster mitigation and ecosystem services.

Challenges

• State concerns: Several states fear adverse impacts on infrastructure and local economies.
• Livelihood issues: Plantation owners and local communities seek regulatory clarity.
• Implementation: Delays in final notification have prolonged uncertainty.
• Balancing interests: Policymakers must reconcile ecological protection with developmental needs.
• Public participation: Continuous stakeholder consultation remains essential.

Way Forward

A scientific and updated demarcation supported by transparent consultations can improve acceptance of the notification. Conservation strategies should incorporate local knowledge and sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Long-term protection of the Western Ghats is essential for biodiversity, river systems, climate resilience and disaster risk reduction. Further official updates may be tracked through the Press Information Bureau.

Prelims Practice Corner

1. Western Ghats are recognised internationally as:
   1. Ramsar Site
   2. UNESCO World Heritage Site
   3. Biosphere Reserve only
   4. Tiger Reserve

   Answer: (b) UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Eco-Sensitive Areas are notified under which Act?
   1. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
   2. Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
   3. Forest Rights Act, 2006
   4. Biological Diversity Act, 2002

   Answer: (b) Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

3. Which activity is generally proposed to be restricted in ESA?
   1. Organic farming
   2. Mining
   3. Eco-tourism
   4. Afforestation

   Answer: (b) Mining.

4. The Western Ghats extend across how many states?
   1. 4
   2. 5
   3. 6
   4. 7

   Answer: (c) 6.

5. Which committee recommended graded protection for the Western Ghats?
   1. Sarkaria Committee
   2. Gadgil Committee
   3. Punchhi Committee
   4. Balwant Rai Mehta Committee

   Answer: (b) Gadgil Committee.

Mains Practice Questions

1. Discuss the significance of the proposed Western Ghats Eco-Sensitive Area for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. (10 marks)

   Answer Structure:

   • Intro: Define Eco-Sensitive Areas.
   • Body: Ecological significance, legal framework, development concerns, policy balance.
   • Conclusion: Highlight sustainable conservation.
2. Examine the recommendations of the Gadgil and Kasturirangan Committees on Western Ghats conservation. (15 marks)

   Answer Structure:

   • Intro: Background of committee reports.
   • Body: Compare recommendations, implementation issues, state concerns and present proposal.
   • Conclusion: Stress science-based conservation with stakeholder participation.

FAQs on Western Ghats ESA

What is an Eco-Sensitive Area?

An Eco-Sensitive Area is a buffer or transition zone around ecologically important regions where environmentally damaging activities are regulated to protect biodiversity.

Why are the Western Ghats important?

The Western Ghats are a global biodiversity hotspot, UNESCO World Heritage Site and the source of many peninsular rivers. They also play a major role in India’s monsoon system.

Why is the ESA notification controversial?

The debate centres on balancing ecological conservation with developmental needs, local livelihoods and infrastructure projects in the affected states.