In a landmark move, the Supreme Court of India has ordered an investigation into alleged illegal construction activities inside the Satkosia Tiger Reserve in Odisha. The apex court's order comes after reports revealed violations of forest conservation laws and intrusion into protected habitats.
What is Satkosia Tiger Reserve?
Located in Angul and Nayagarh districts, Odisha
Covers over 963.87 sq km
Known for its unique gorge ecosystem formed by the River Mahanadi
Home to tigers, elephants, leopards, mugger crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species
Declared a tiger reserve in 2007
What’s the Issue?
Reports claim:
Unauthorized construction of eco-tourism infrastructure, guest houses, and roads
Encroachment into core forest zones without prior environmental clearance
Possible involvement of local contractors and tourism operators
Lack of transparency and proper permissions under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980
“No development can happen at the cost of biodiversity,” observed the court.
Supreme Court’s Directive
Orders a high-level joint probe by the Forest Department, National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), and Wildlife Institute of India
Seeks a status report within 8 weeks
Halts all ongoing construction work inside core zones
Warns of action against any government negligence or complicity
Why This Matters
Illegal constructions inside tiger reserves:
Disturb wildlife corridors
Increase man-animal conflicts
Violate Wildlife Protection Act (1972)
Undermine years of conservation efforts
Conservation vs. Commercialization
While eco-tourism can help raise awareness and support livelihoods, unchecked and unregulated infrastructure in core habitats is a direct threat to wildlife.
Experts call for:
Eco-sensitive zoning
Strict construction guidelines
Community-based tourism outside core areas
FAQs
Q1: Where is Satkosia Tiger Reserve located?
In the eastern state of Odisha, spanning Angul and Nayagarh districts.
Q2: What illegal activities were reported?
Construction of tourist lodges, buildings, and roads without environmental clearance inside protected zones.
Q3: What has the Supreme Court ordered?
A probe by top wildlife and forest bodies, a halt to all construction, and a report within 8 weeks.
Q4: Why is this reserve important?
It holds a critical tiger population, a diverse ecosystem, and acts as a climate buffer for the region.
Q5: What can be done to balance tourism and wildlife?
Through regulated eco-tourism outside core zones, local community involvement, and sustainable models.
Published on : 6th August
Published by : SMITA
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