Fri Jan 02 16:36:25 UTC 2026: News Article:

CEC Investigates Reduced Eco-Sensitive Zone Around Bannerghatta National Park

Bengaluru, January 2, 2026 – Chandra Prakash Goyal, a member of the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) constituted by the Supreme Court, visited Bannerghatta National Park (BNP) on Friday to investigate concerns surrounding the reduction of its Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ). The visit was prompted by a petition arguing that the 2020 notification reducing the ESZ has excluded vital ecological areas, particularly elephant corridors.

Mr. Goyal met with local farmers and petitioners who claim the reduced ESZ is detrimental to wildlife. He also received briefings from senior Forest Department officials, including Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Meenakshi Negi.

“BNP is a very important national park as far as Karnataka is concerned,” stated Mr. Goyal, emphasizing the need to review the differences between the 2016 and 2020 ESZ notifications. The CEC aims to submit a report to the Supreme Court before the next hearing on January 7th.

Farmers voiced concerns about the encroachment on arable land and the impact of large-scale housing developments violating environmental regulations. Somashekar, a farmer from Kadajakkanahalli village, highlighted the shrinking arable land due to rampant encroachment. Shivashankar, from Hindalwadi village, pointed to large-scale housing colonies around the BNP were being constructed by politicians violating environment norms.

Mr. Goyal addressed the issue of illegal mining, reminding that it is prohibited within one kilometer of any protected area. The CEC will submit its recommendations to the Supreme Court, aiming for a report with ecological integrity.

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