The final notification of the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary will provide protection to the local flora and fauna as certain activities will be regulated or restricted.
The existing forests, horticulture areas, agricultural areas, parks, and open spaces in the ESZ cannot be used or converted into areas for commercial or industrial development, while there is a ban on commercial mining and quarrying. New and even existing mining, including stone quarrying and crushing units, shall be prohibited in the ESZ except for domestic needs of the local community.
Environment friendly
Similarly, no new polluting industry will be allowed in eco-sensitive zone, while even the establishment of new wood-based industry shall not be permitted. However, activities that are in conformity with environmental laws like organic farming, adoption of green technology, rainwater harvesting, use of renewable energy resources, and cottage industry to encourage rural artisans will be encouraged.
A monitoring committee has to be constituted to oversee the regulations and it will comprise the Regional Commissioner of Mysuru region as the Chairman, representatives from the Department of Environment, Urban Development, an NGO working on environmental issue to be nominated for one-year term, regional officer of State Pollution Control Board, an expert from ecology from a reputed institution or university to be nominated by the State Government, the Deputy Commissioner, and the local MLA, among others.
