Pune : The Central Government has accelerated the process of declaring ecologically sensitive zones (ESZ) in the Western Ghats by issuing its seventh draft notification. The notification covers numerous villages across Maharashtra, including 414 villages in Pune district alone. While the step aims to boost environmental conservation, it has sparked concerns among local residents, farmers, and tribal communities regarding potential future restrictions on their daily lives and livelihoods.

Key Restrictions and Protections Proposed Under the Notification

Recognized by UNESCO as a global natural heritage site, the Western Ghats hold immense ecological value due to their rich biodiversity, rare flora and fauna, and role as the birthplace of major rivers such as the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri. To strike a balance between ecological preservation and local development, the proposed ESZ rules mandate a complete ban on mining, stone quarrying, and sand extraction, with existing mining operations scheduled to shut down within five years or upon permit expiration. Additionally, new thermal power plants and “red category” heavy industries will not be allowed to open or expand, while building construction and regional development projects will face strict compliance conditions.

Local Concerns and Clarifications on Property Rights

The Central Government has explicitly clarified that the notification will not alter or affect private property ownership rights. Local development needs will be assessed on a case-by-case basis by a committee chaired by the respective District Collector. Nevertheless, uncertainty persists among residents who fear the introduction of even stricter curbs or potential relocation in the future. Officials emphasized that this draft is a preparatory step, and the final notification will only be issued after gathering feedback and objections from state governments and stakeholders.

Geographical Coverage Across Maharashtra and Pune District

The draft notification encompasses villages from multiple districts across Maharashtra: Raigad (437), Pune (414), Satara (336), Ratnagiri (311), Kolhapur (212), Thane (208), Nashik (202), Sindhudurg (198), Palghar (136), Ahilyanagar (48), Sangli (13), Dhule (7), and Nandurbar (2). Within Pune district, the 414 identified villages span the talukas of Ambegaon, Bhor, Haveli, Junnar, Khed, Maval, Mulshi, Purandar, and Velhe, bringing a major portion of the region’s tribal, hilly, and sanctuary zones—including the Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary—under the proposed Eco-Sensitive Zone framework.