Keralam urges Centre to exclude 98 villages from Western Ghats eco-sensitive area

Kerala Asks Central Government to Exclude 98 Villages from Western Ghats Eco-Sensitive Zone

The Kerala government has passed a resolution asking the central government to finalize the eco-sensitive area notification for the Western Ghats only after reviewing their proposed changes. The state is seeking exemptions for 98 villages, claiming these areas are crucial for agriculture, human settlements, public health, and essential infrastructure while still ensuring environmental protection.

The proposal aims to balance conservation efforts with the needs of local communities who depend on these regions for livelihoods and daily life. By excluding these villages from the eco-sensitive zone, the state hopes to safeguard both natural resources and the well-being of its residents.

This move highlights the ongoing tension between environmental preservation and human development in the Western Ghats region, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity. The Kerala government argues that their approach will help protect the environment while supporting sustainable living for those who call these areas home.