ESA protests driven by ‘hidden agenda’, allege environmental groups
Environmental groups are defending the proposed Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) status for the Western Ghats against ongoing protests. They argue that conservation efforts are necessary to prevent ecological damage and mitigate climate change impacts.
Why it matters
The debate reflects the tension between local development interests and the urgent need for biodiversity conservation in a climate-vulnerable region.
Environmental groups have criticised the ongoing protests against the re-issued draft notification proposing to declare parts of the Western Ghats as an ecologically sensitive area (ESA), alleging that vested interests are behind the agitation.
Conservation groups alleged that those opposing the draft have a “hidden agenda”. The Wayanad Prakruthi Samrakshana Samithi (WPSS) said people should understand the rationale and objectives behind identifying ESAs before opposing the proposal. The organisation said the objectives included protecting the Western Ghats’ biodiversity and wildlife habitats, reducing the risk of natural disasters such as floods and landslides, safeguarding river basins and ensuring water availability during dry spells, mitigating the impacts of climate change and promoting sustainable development.
The organisation rejected concerns that ESA restrictions would force people off their land or destroy their livelihoods.
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