Formal demarcation of the Kaziranga eco-sensitive zone is expected to clarify development rules for Bokakhat, where officials say restrictions have affected infrastructure planning.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced plans to reduce the eco-sensitive zone around Kaziranga National Park from the existing default limit of 10 kilometres to one kilometre through formal notification as part of a series of proposed development initiatives for Bokakhat.
During a visit to Bokakhat, Sarma said the state government was examining several infrastructure requirements, including the development of a stadium, improvements to civic infrastructure and other projects.
“There are several development-related challenges in Bokakhat that we intend to address, including the development of a stadium, improvements to the town’s infrastructure, and other key projects,” Sarma said.
He said preliminary discussions had taken place on the proposed projects and indicated that he would return to Bokakhat to examine the requirements in greater detail before concrete plans were finalised.
Sarma said the eco-sensitive zone or ESZ, around Kaziranga was a key issue affecting development activities in areas surrounding the national park.
According to the chief minister, the ESZ currently extends up to 10 kilometres by default because the zone has not yet been formally notified.
He said the state government would work towards submitting a proposal to the Centre within the next two months for the formal notification and demarcation of the zone.
“Once there is a proper notification, the eco-sensitive zone will be reduced to one kilometre, which will significantly ease many of the existing constraints,” Sarma said.
The chief minister said several other pending issues concerning the region had already been addressed, with some proposals either denotified or finalised.
He said formal demarcation of the ESZ would provide greater clarity over the regulatory framework and help facilitate the implementation of development projects in and around Bokakhat.
The proposed move is expected to have implications for infrastructure and other development activities in areas adjoining Kaziranga, where restrictions linked to the eco-sensitive zone have long been an issue for local authorities and residents.
