Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary Eco-Sensitive Zone Notification

Key facts

• The Centre has declared the biodiversity-rich area, ranging from zero to one kilometre around Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary, located in one of the most fragile ecosystems of the Aravali range in Rajasthan, as an eco-sensitive zone (ESZ).
• The move will prohibit environmentally hazardous human activities within the earmarked zone of 243 sq km.
• Prohibited activities within the ESZ include commercial mining, stone quarrying and crushing units; setting up of industries causing water, air, soil and noise pollution; setting up of brick kilns; and erection of new wind mills among others.
• New construction of hotels and resorts shall not be allowed within one km from the boundary of the protected area or up to the extent of the eco-sensitive zone, whichever is nearer.
• Forests, horticulture areas, agricultural areas, parks and open spaces earmarked for recreational purposes in the zone will not be used or converted into areas for major commercial or residential or industrial activities.