NGT Orders Probe into Odisha Sanctuary's Ecological Damage

The National Green Tribunal's Eastern Zone Bench has issued a significant order compelling the Odisha government to form a joint committee. This committee is tasked with investigating serious allegations of widespread deforestation and unauthorized construction within the eco-sensitive zones of the Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary in Puri.

The tribunal's intervention came after a petitioner raised concerns about tree felling, land clearing, and permanent constructions occurring without proper authorization. These actions are reportedly destroying the natural habitat and violating environmental protection laws.

The Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary, a vital ecological hotspot spanning 71.72 sq km, serves as a crucial barrier against tidal surges and cyclones for nearby human settlements. It hosts diverse flora and fauna, including blackbucks and spotted deer.

The NGT emphasized that the allegations raise substantial environmental questions. The newly formed committee, comprising representatives from the Odisha State Pollution Control Board, the Puri collector, and the divisional forest officer, must begin its site visits and verification within two weeks. The committee is required to submit its findings and remedial suggestions to the NGT within one month, with the Puri district magistrate acting as the nodal officer for coordination.