What are eco-sensitive zones in India?

Eco-sensitive zones are areas typically within 10 km of national parks or wildlife sanctuaries, established as a second-tier of legal protection to regulate activities near these protected areas.

What new rule applies to projects in eco-sensitive zones?

Projects falling in eco-sensitive zones will not be appraised unless their draft or final notification has been published, as directed by the Union Environment Minister.

How many eco-sensitive zone notifications have been published?

As of November 2024, 347 eco-sensitive zone notifications have been published by the ministry.

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Eco-Zones: Projects Blocked Until Rules Published

10 Feb

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Summary

Projects in eco-sensitive zones need published notifications before appraisal.
Minister directed states to expedite finalization of eco-sensitive zone notifications.
347 eco-sensitive zone notifications published; 43 projects cleared since 2018.

Eco-Zones: Projects Blocked Until Rules Published

Authorities are now prohibited from appraising projects within eco-sensitive zones (ESZs) until the relevant draft or final notification is published. This directive comes from Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, aiming to enhance protections around national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Such proposals will only be considered for appraisal under exceptional circumstances.

The ministry is also coordinating with states to expedite the finalization of ESZ notifications. Eco-sensitive zones serve as crucial buffer areas, regulating activities to mitigate the impact of infrastructure projects. As of November 2024, 347 ESZ notifications have been published, and 43 projects were granted environmental clearance in these zones between 2018 and 2023.

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