Center proposes ESZ around Palghar Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary

Mumbai: The Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has invited objections or suggestions to the proposed eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) around the Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary in Palghar district.
In a draft notification issued on May 7, the ministry has proposed notification of an area ranging from 1km to 9km from the sanctuary boundary as the eco-sensitive zone.The proposed ESZ will cover an area of 475.16 sqkm in Thane and Palghar districts, comprising 280.6sqkm of forest area and 194.6sqkm of non-forest area, which includes 161 villages.
According to the gazette notification, leopard, which is one of the species found in the sanctuary, holds vital importance. Other species found in the sanctuary include Rusty-Spotted Cat, Jungle Cat, small Indian Civet, Common Palm Civet, Mouse deer, Indian Rock Python, Rat Snake, Indian Cobra, and Checkered keelback, among others. The sanctuary’s rich floral diversity also supports a large number of tree species. The draft notification mentions that a zonal master plan shall be prepared in two years. Tribal land cannot be utilized for commercial or industrial activities without obtaining state approval. Additionally, the catchment areas of all natural springs, rivers, and channels will be identified, and plans for their conservation will be included.Animals from Bhairavakona Wildlife Sanctuary and Seethakonda Zoo ventured onto roads due to water scarcity from a heatwave. Forest department took measures to protect them by limiting vehicular traffic and setting up temporary border to prevent poaching.
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