Expressing deep concern over the protracted delay in granting ESZ status to the Shettihalli wildlife sanctuary, the NGT has issued an ultimatum to the Karnataka government. The tribunal has directed the state to take prompt and effective measures to address the pending issues and finalize the ESZ notification within the stipulated six-month timeframe.
The absence of ESZ status has resulted in a surge in encroachment activities within the sanctuary’s boundaries, with the area of encroachment expanding from 616.18 hectares to a staggering 2,000 hectares. This alarming trend poses a significant threat to the sanctuary’s fragile ecosystem and the biodiversity it harbors.
The NGT’s intervention is a critical step towards safeguarding the Shettihalli wildlife sanctuary and preserving its ecological integrity. The timely implementation of ESZ regulations will help curb encroachment, regulate development activities, and ensure the long-term conservation of this vital natural heritage.
The tribunal’s directive serves as a stark reminder to the government of its responsibility to protect the environment and uphold the principles of sustainable development. The NGT’s action sets a precedent for addressing similar delays in granting ESZ status to other wildlife sanctuaries across the country.