A meeting was held at the Secretariat, chaired by Principal Secretary (Environment Conservation and Climate Change) R.K. Sudhanshu, regarding the proposed Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ) for Rajaji National Park and the Valley of Flowers National Park. He issued clear directives to ensure that, alongside environmental conservation, the needs and sentiments of the local population are also fully taken into account.
Key points from the meeting:
• Rajaji National Park: Guidance will be sought from the upcoming Cabinet regarding the resolution of issues related to the ESZ. Instructions were given to prepare the state’s position within one week, following the receipt of legal opinion in accordance with the directives of the Supreme Court.
• Valley of Flowers: A proposal will be formulated based on reports from the concerned District Magistrates and the Tourism Department, taking into consideration the sensitivity of the area, movement within it, and the carrying capacity for tourists.
• Coordination with Pollution Control Boards: Necessary action will be ensured at the level of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) regarding the master plan and regulated activities.
