To balance conservation with development, the government introduced a series of regulatory measures under the Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ) notification. These measures aim to limit activities harmful to the environment, while promoting those that support environmental protection. This framework has been designed to conserve the abundant biodiversity of the Barasingha Wildlife Sanctuary and support the livelihoods of the communities in the surrounding areas. All activities within the ESZ are subject to monitoring and, where applicable, require a Wildlife Clearance Certificate.

The Significance of Barasingha Wildlife Sanctuary 

Barasingha Wildlife Sanctuary, earlier known as Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, stands as an important ecological corridor in Uttar Pradesh. Spread across the districts of Muzaffarnagar, Meerut, Hapur, Bijnor, and Amroha districts, the sanctuary plays a crucial role in conserving the fragile biodiversity of the Upper Ganga region.

Named after the state animal, Swamp Deer or Barasingha, the sanctuary is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including dolphins, kale deer, leopards and rare turtle species. Its varied habitats, ranging from stream forests to grasslands, support not only animals but medicinal and native plant life.

Apart from its ecological value, this sanctuary provides sustainable livelihood opportunities for nearby communities through ecotourism, forest production, and conservation-oriented jobs. Its conservation is not just about safeguarding species, it is about maintaining the ecological health of the entire region and promoting the balance between nature and development.

What is an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ)?

Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) are designated buffer areas around wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, aimed at safeguarding biodiversity and reducing human wildlife conflict. Under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, this zone is designed to limit certain activities like construction, industrial setups, and tourism, to ensure sustainable development near ecologically sensitive regions.

Any activity within an ESZ must pass environmental scrutiny and often needs a wildlife clearance license to proceed. This framework helps balance conservation goals with local development, ensuring that ecological integrity is not negotiated by unchecked human intervention.

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Zonal Master Plan: The Roadmap for Development

The notification directs the creation of a Zonal Master Plan within two years. This plan, is prepared by the State Government in consultation with local communities and numerous departments (such as Forest, Environment, Agriculture and Tourism), will.

• Clearly map land use (residential, forest, agricultural, water bodies)
• Establish zones for eco-tourism and sustainable development
• Identify and safeguard sacred groves, heritage sites, and natural springs
• Plan for forest restoration, catchment management, and water conservation
• Address local community requirements without compromising environmental safety

Key Measures for Sustainable Development

To ensure balanced development without compromising on ecological integrity, the government has announced strategic measures under the Environmentally Sensitive Zone (ESZ) notification. These measures favour biodiversity while permitting necessary growth under strict environmental supervision.

• Wildlife Clearance Certification Requirement: All proposed industrial, tourism, or infrastructure projects within the ESZ must obtain a wildlife clearance certificate. It ensures that only environmentally safe and sustainable activities are allowed close to the sanctuary.
• Zoning and Land Use Regulation: The Zonal Master Plan will clearly specify the categories of land use, allowing only particular activities in permitted areas. This helps prevent habitat fragmentation and aligns human activities with ecological priorities.
• Promotion of Sustainable Livelihoods: Eco-tourism, organic farming, and traditional handicrafts are promoted as alternative income sources for local communities. To ensure minimal environmental impact, these initiatives must comply with environmental principles and obtain necessary approvals.
• Infrastructure with Environmental Compliance: Development of urban amenities like schools, hospitals and roads is allowed but subject to approval. It ensures that necessary services do not affect local biodiversity or violate environmental regulations.
• Strict Monitoring and Compliance Oversight: A dedicated Monitoring Committee will monitor all authorized activities, ensure compliance with the rules, and take action against violations. This multi-stakeholder entity will help implement accountability and long-term environmental protection.

Tourism and Eco-Development

Tourism can both help and harm wildlife. The new rules allow only eco-friendly tourism, namely guided nature walks, birdwatching, and activities like homestays that do not harm the ecosystem. Eco-tourism projects must also secure a wildlife clearance license, especially if they include new construction or expansion of existing facilities.

Key points include:

• No large hotels or resorts within 1 km of the sanctuary: Stop ongoing large-scale development that could disrupt wildlife habitats.
• Only designated eco-tourism areas can host tourists: Ensuring controlled and sustainable visitor numbers.
• All tourism projects must follow the Tourism Master Plan: Aligning with broader conservation and development goals.
• Activities must adhere to the carrying capacity of the area: Prevent overexploitation of natural resources.

Pollution and Waste Management Guidelines

The notification also lays out stringent standards for pollution and waste management within the ESZ:

• Solid waste: It must be managed as per the 2016 Solid Waste Management Rules.
• Bio-medical waste: All Bio- medical waste shall disposed only via approved technologies and in compliance with 2016 guidelines.
• Plastic waste: Regulated under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016.
• Construction waste: Any construction waste must be safely handled as per national standards.
• E-waste: Ensuring safe recycling and disposal of E-waste is mandatory.
• Vehicular traffic and pollution: To be monitored and regulated with preference for cleaner fuels (like CNG or electric vehicles).

List of Activities Prohibited or Regulated Within the Eco-Sensitive Zone

All activities within the Eco-Sensitive Zone are guided by the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 and the related rules and regulations issued under it. These laws, along with other notifications and environmental, forest, and wildlife protections issued by the Government of India (including the Ministry of Environment and Forests). These regulations are regularly updated and amended to ensure the best protection for the environment, as detailed in the table below.

Also Read: Eco-Sensitive Zone Proposal for Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary: Safeguarding Biodiversity and Ecosystems

Constitution and Role of Monitoring Committee

A Monitoring Committee will monitor the implementation of the notification. Since the sanctuary encompasses five districts, each district will have a Sub-Monitoring Committee headed by the District Magistrate. Their responsibilities include:

• Reviewing applications for wildlife clearance: Ensuring that proposed activities adhere with environmental regulations.
• Ensuring adherence to land use and pollution control rules: Monitoring land development and pollution levels.
• Monitoring eco-tourism, construction, and development activities: Tracking the impact of human activities on the environment.
• Taking legal action against violators under the Environment Act: Implementing compliance through legal measures.

Conclusion

The declaration of Barasingha Wildlife Sanctuary as an ecologically sensitive zone establishes an important framework for biodiversity conservation while supporting sustainable development. By carefully regulating land use, organizing activities, and promoting community engagement, the initiative protects more than 400 animal species and 280 plant species.

Complying with these guidelines and wildlife sanitation practices is fundamental to protecting this ecological treasure, ensuring that conservation and development move forward in harmony.