The National Green Tribunal (Principal Bench) has recently issued directions to the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of Forest and Climate Change regarding the expansion of Agra’s Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary. The Tribunal’s directive comes in response to the need for clarity on the steps taken by the state government to enhance the sanctuary’s area and protect its biodiversity.
The ACS was asked to provide a comprehensive report detailing the actions undertaken to expand the sanctuary. This report is crucial for assessing the progress made in enhancing the sanctuary’s area and ensuring its ecological integrity. The Tribunal emphasized the importance of this expansion to protect the habitat of various bird species and maintain the sanctuary’s status as an important biodiversity hotspot.
The directive follows the submission of an affidavit by the ACS, outlining the steps taken by the state government in this regard. The affidavit likely includes details such as the identification of additional land for expansion, the acquisition process, and any conservation measures implemented to protect the sanctuary’s ecosystem.
The bench overseeing the case, comprising Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Justice Sudhir Agarwal, Dr. A. Senthil Vel, and Dr. A. Afroz Ahmad, expressed satisfaction with the progress reported so far. However, they stressed the need for continued action to ensure the effective expansion and protection of the sanctuary.
The Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, also known as Keetham Lake, is a vital habitat for a diverse range of bird species. Its expansion is crucial to provide a larger and more secure environment for these birds, especially during their migratory seasons. Additionally, the sanctuary serves as an important ecological zone, supporting various plant and animal species endemic to the region.
The Tribunal’s directive is in line with its mandate to protect and conserve the environment. By seeking a detailed report on the steps taken for the sanctuary’s expansion, the Tribunal is ensuring that the state government remains accountable for its conservation efforts.
The expansion of the Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is not only important for the protection of biodiversity but also for promoting ecotourism and raising awareness about the importance of conservation. A larger sanctuary area will attract more bird species, nature enthusiasts, and researchers, contributing to the local economy and biodiversity conservation efforts.
In conclusion, the National Green Tribunal’s direction to the ACS of Forest and Climate Change regarding the expansion of Agra’s Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is a positive step towards ensuring the sanctuary’s long-term conservation and protection. It reflects the Tribunal’s commitment to environmental preservation and sets a precedent for effective biodiversity conservation measures across the country.
