Environment – Centre Orders Probe Into Constructions Inside Kanger Valley Park
Environment – The Union government has asked the Chhattisgarh administration to look into allegations of unauthorized construction activities within the ecologically sensitive Kanger Valley National Park in Bastar district. The move follows concerns that certain eco-tourism projects may have violated environmental regulations designed to protect fragile forest ecosystems.
Allegations of Unauthorized Construction in Protected Area
The issue came to light after a complaint highlighted the construction of permanent structures inside the Green Cave area near Kutumsar. These include a welcome gate and cemented stairways reportedly built under eco-tourism initiatives. According to the complaint, such developments may have bypassed provisions of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, which restricts non-forest activities in protected zones without prior approval.
Guidelines issued by the central government clearly state that any permanent construction inside national parks requires clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. In this case, the allegations suggest that these procedures may not have been followed before the work was initiated.
Financial Approvals Raise Further Questions
The complaint also claims that a budget of approximately Rs 48 lakh was sanctioned for the project. The funds were reportedly approved by senior forest officials and released in two phases. This has raised concerns about administrative oversight and whether due diligence was conducted before allocating public resources for such construction work within a protected forest area.
Authorities have now been directed to review whether these approvals were granted in compliance with existing environmental laws and policies.
Centre Seeks Detailed Report From State Authorities
In response to the complaint, the Ministry has issued formal instructions to senior officials in Chhattisgarh, including the head of the forest department and the designated officer for matters related to forest conservation. The state government has been asked to investigate the matter thoroughly and take appropriate action if any violations are found.
The directive emphasizes the need to assess both legal and environmental aspects of the case. Officials are expected to determine whether the constructions fall under prohibited activities and whether any corrective measures are required.
Policy Guidelines on Eco-Tourism Under Scrutiny
The controversy has also brought attention to guidelines issued in 2021 regarding eco-tourism in forest areas. These rules clearly define permanent construction as a non-forestry activity, making it subject to strict regulatory approvals. The guidelines were introduced to prevent the expansion of concrete infrastructure in ecologically sensitive regions under the label of tourism development.
Experts say these rules were designed to strike a balance between promoting tourism and preserving biodiversity. Any deviation from these norms can potentially lead to long-term environmental damage.
Environmental Concerns Over Cave Ecosystem
Scientists and environmental researchers have expressed concern over the potential impact of increased tourist activity and construction work on the Green Cave ecosystem. Changes in humidity, vibrations from foot traffic, and rising dust levels can significantly alter the delicate natural formations inside the cave.
Some experts have warned that such disturbances could cause irreversible damage to the cave’s unique geological features. There are also reports suggesting that dust accumulation may have already affected the natural appearance of formations within the cave.
Legal and Conservation Developments
The matter has also drawn judicial attention, with the High Court seeking details from park authorities regarding conservation measures being undertaken in the area. This indicates growing scrutiny over how protected zones are being managed and whether environmental safeguards are being adequately enforced.
The complaint has further called for strict legal action against officials allegedly involved in approving the construction. Authorities are now expected to determine accountability based on the findings of the investigation.
Broader Implications for Eco-Tourism Practices
Conservationists view the Centre’s intervention as part of a larger effort to regulate eco-tourism activities in sensitive forest regions. The case highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing tourism development with environmental protection.
If violations are confirmed, the outcome could set an important precedent for how similar projects are handled across the country. It may also lead to stricter monitoring of eco-tourism initiatives to ensure they align with conservation goals.