Shrinking shock absorbers of Bannerghatta National Park in Bengaluru
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Karnataka government reduced the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around Bannerghatta National Park for a housing project, despite a Supreme Court order to restore original boundaries.
Background
The Central Empowered Committee (CEC) recommended restoring the 2016 draft notification which included a buffer zone of up to 4.5 kilometers. The Karnataka Housing Board (KHB) project is currently in conflict with environmentalists and farmers over biodiversity impacts.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceBannerghatta National Park is located in Bengaluru, Karnataka
- FactThe 2016 draft notification included a buffer zone of up to 4.5 kilometers from the park's boundary
- BodyThe Central Empowered Committee (CEC) recommended the restoration of the original ESZ boundaries
For Mains
Q. Discuss the conflict between infrastructure development and biodiversity conservation in ecologically sensitive zones. How can buffer zones mitigate human-wildlife conflict?
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Regulatory friction: Conflict between state housing board projects and Supreme Court-mandated environmental protections
- Ecological fragmentation: Impact of reduced buffer zones on elephant corridors and regional biodiversity
- Governance gap: Enforcement of ESZ declaration guidelines against irreversible environmental damage
Keywords: Eco-Sensitive Zone · Human-wildlife conflict · Biodiversity conservation · Buffer zones · Environmental impact assessment
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