The Lippa-Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the remote Trans-Himalayan region of Himachal Pradesh, is a vital part of India’s rich wildlife heritage. This sanctuary, with its diverse landscapes and ecosystems, plays a crucial role in the conservation of Himalayan biodiversity, particularly for iconic species like the Snow Leopard. As the sanctuary is nestled within an eco-sensitive zone, its protection and sustainable development have become increasingly significant. In response to this need, the Central Government has proposed a comprehensive notification under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

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Overview of the Lippa-Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary

The Lippa-Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1974, is located in the upper catchment of the Taiti stream, a tributary of the Sutlej River, in Himachal Pradesh’s Trans-Himalayan region. Covering 31 square kilometers, it was formally notified under the Wildlife Protection Act in 2013. The sanctuary’s creation highlights the importance of preserving the region’s fragile ecosystems, which are home to rare and endangered species, including the Snow Leopard, Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, and Blue Sheep.

This sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot, with a variety of unique flora and fauna, many endemic to the Trans-Himalayan region. Its diverse vegetation includes Alpine Scrubs, pastures, and temperate forests, with species like Betula utilis, Cedrus deodara, and Juniperus communis. The sanctuary plays a crucial role in conserving these species, serving as a refuge from threats like climate change and human encroachment.

By protecting these habitats, the sanctuary contributes significantly to Trans-Himalayan biodiversity. It supports rare species that thrive in high-altitude environments and helps maintain ecological balance in the region. Additionally, the sanctuary is vital for scientific research, environmental education, and eco-tourism, making its conservation a key priority in global efforts to preserve Himalayan ecosystems.

Details of the Lippa-Asrang’s Eco-Sensitive Zone

The Eco-sensitive Zone (ESZ) surrounding the Lippa-Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 298.469 square kilometers, extending from 1 kilometer to 20.527 kilometers around the sanctuary. This buffer zone is essential for maintaining the ecological health of the sanctuary. The land within the ESZ is composed of 125.68 square kilometers of wasteland, 156.08 square kilometers of snow-covered terrain, 14.74 square kilometers of grassland, and 1.969 square kilometers of streams. These varied landscapes contribute to the region’s biodiversity by supporting different plant and animal species. The boundary of the Lippa-Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary and its Eco-sensitive Zone is defined by the following geo-coordinates:

• North: 31° 44' 21" N, 77° 15' 00" E
• East: 31° 40' 32" N, 78° 18' 07" E
• South: 31° 39' 29" N, 78° 17' 24" E
• West: 31° 41' 27" N, 78° 13' 09" E

Zonal Master Plan for the Eco-Sensitive Zone

The Zonal Master Plan is a comprehensive framework aimed at ensuring the balanced development and conservation of the Lippa-Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary’s Eco-sensitive Zone. It is required to be prepared within two years of the notification’s publication. The plan will integrate ecological considerations with local needs and provide guidelines for sustainable development. Below are the key points for the Zonal Master Plan:

• Integration of Local and Environmental Needs
• Protection of Existing Land Use
• Restoration of Denuded Areas
• Conservation of Water Bodies and Watershed Management
• Eco-Friendly Infrastructure Development
• Identification of Sacred and Historical Sites
• Regulation of Commercial and Industrial Activities
• Promotion of Eco-Tourism
• Co-ordination with Regional Development Plans
• Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanisms

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

Measures to be Taken by the State Government

The State Government will take key measures to implement provisions that ensure the protection and sustainable development of the Eco-sensitive Zone in Himachal Pradesh.

1. Land Use: Strict prohibition on converting forests and agricultural land into commercial or industrial spaces, ensuring that Himachal Pradesh wildlife thrives.
2. Conservation of Natural Water Bodies: Special attention will be given to natural springs, maintaining ecological balance in the Eco-sensitive Zone.
3. Tourism and Eco-Tourism: New tourism activities will follow eco-tourism guidelines, promoting sustainable development in Himachal Pradesh.
4. Protection of Natural Heritage: Important natural sites, including those in the Lippa-Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary, will be preserved to protect Trans-Himalayan biodiversity.
5. Preservation of Man-Made Heritage: Historical and cultural sites will be incorporated into the Zonal Master Plan.
6. Noise Pollution Control: Efforts will focus on reducing noise pollution from tourism and industry.
7. Air Pollution Control: Measures to reduce emissions will be enforced, promoting cleaner air in the Eco-sensitive Zone.
8. Effluent Discharge Management: Strict regulations will prevent harmful discharges from impacting water bodies in the sanctuary.
9. Solid Waste Management: Eco-friendly waste disposal methods will be adopted, with recycling promoted within the Eco-sensitive Zone.
10. Bio-Medical Waste Management: Bio-medical waste will be safely treated under national laws to minimize environmental risks.
11. Plastic Waste Management: The use of single-use plastics will be reduced, focusing on recycling.
12. Construction and Demolition Waste Management: Construction waste will be properly disposed of to protect the environment.
13. E-Waste Management: Safe disposal of electronic waste will help reduce the environmental impact.
14. Vehicular Traffic Regulation: Vehicle movement within the Eco-sensitive Zone will be regulated to minimize disturbance to Himachal Pradesh wildlife.
15. Vehicular Pollution Control: Electric vehicles and cleaner fuels will be encouraged to reduce emissions.
16. Industrial Units: Only non-polluting industries will be allowed within the Eco-sensitive Zone to support wildlife conservation laws.
17. Protection of Hill Slopes: Construction on steep slopes will be prohibited to prevent soil erosion and preserve fragile ecosystems.

List of Activities Prohibited, Regulated or Promoted within Eco-Sensitive Zone

These activities are prohibited, regulated or promoted within eco-sensitive zone. These include:

Environmental Management and Pollution Control of Lippa-Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary

The Lippa-Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary's Eco-sensitive Zone enforces strict pollution control measures to safeguard its delicate ecosystem. Noise pollution is controlled under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, ensuring minimal disturbance to wildlife. Air pollution is managed in compliance with the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, focusing on reducing emissions from vehicles and industries. Water pollution is regulated under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, to prevent contamination of natural water bodies. Waste management plays a key role, with solid waste disposed of according to the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and bio-medical waste treated under the Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016. The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and E-Waste Management Rules, 2016, are enforced to reduce plastic and electronic waste. Additionally, only non-polluting industries approved by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) are allowed, supporting sustainable development in the region.

Monitoring Committee and its Role

The Monitoring Committee, established by the Central Government under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, is responsible for overseeing environmental activities in the Eco-sensitive Zone (ESZ). It monitors various activities such as agriculture, horticulture, dairy farming, and aquaculture, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations. The committee also regulates large-scale commercial farming, wastewater discharge, eco-tourism, and the introduction of exotic species. It promotes sustainability through initiatives like rainwater harvesting, organic farming, green technologies, and the use of renewable energy sources such as solar power and bio-gas. Chaired by the Chief Conservator of Forests (Territorial), with members from various government and non-government organizations, the committee ensures a collaborative approach to environmental protection. The committee reviews both scheduled and non-scheduled activities, files complaints against violations, invites expert assistance, and submits an annual report to the Chief Wildlife Warden, ensuring transparency and effective monitoring.

Regulations on Development within the Eco-Sensitive Zone

The Central Government and State Government may introduce additional measures to effectively implement the provisions of this notification, ensuring comprehensive environmental protection. These measures will align with the overarching goal of safeguarding the Eco-sensitive Zone and promoting sustainable development. Furthermore, the provisions of this notification are subject to any orders passed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, High Courts, or the National Green Tribunal. Any legal directives or judgments will take precedence, ensuring compliance with the highest judicial and environmental standards.

Conclusion

The Lippa-Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary is a critical ecological area that requires stringent protection and management to preserve its unique biodiversity. The proposal of an Eco-sensitive Zone, along with the formulation of a Zonal Master Plan, offers a balanced framework for both environmental conservation and socio-economic development. With robust regulatory measures in place, this initiative promises a sustainable future for the sanctuary’s ecosystems and the local communities that depend on them. This initiative is a significant step towards preserving the rich biodiversity of the Lippa-Asrang Wildlife Sanctuary. Stakeholders—including local communities, conservationists, and government bodies—must collaborate to ensure that the regulatory measures are effectively implemented for the long-term protection of this vital ecosystem.