Context:
The Tamil Nadu government informed the Madras High Court that illegal resorts in the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR) have been sealed.
Key Highlights:
- Location & Geography
- Located in Tamil Nadu, at the junction of the Eastern and Western Ghats.
- Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
- Connected to Mudumalai, Bandipur, and BR Tiger Reserves.
- Physical Features
- Terrain: Hilly and undulating (750–1649 m).
- Climate: Subtropical with dry summers and wet monsoons.
- Rivers: Bhavani, Moyar, Noyyal.
- Biodiversity
- Flora:
- Teak, sandalwood, bamboo, Terminalia, Albizia.
- Fauna:
- Tiger, Elephant, Leopard (Panther), Sloth bear, Gaur, Blackbuck.
- Primates: Nilgiri langur, Bonnet macaque.
- Tribal Communities:
- Irula, Kurumba tribes.
- Significance / Applications
- Acts as a critical wildlife corridor between Western and Eastern Ghats.
- Supports high biodiversity and conservation of endangered species.
- Concerns
- Illegal resorts in ESZ threaten ecosystem integrity.
- Human activities may lead to habitat fragmentation and wildlife disturbance.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ): Buffer area around protected areas to regulate activities.
- STR is part of Project Tiger network.
- Located in Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO recognized).
Relevant Mains Points:
- Conservation Challenges:
- Encroachment, tourism pressure, and illegal constructions.
- Human-wildlife conflict due to habitat disturbance.
- Legal and Governance Aspects:
- Role of judiciary in environmental protection.
- Enforcement of ESZ regulations under Environment Protection Act, 1986.
- Ecological Importance:
- Maintains landscape connectivity for wildlife migration.
- Supports climate resilience and biodiversity conservation.
- Balancing Development & Conservation:
- Need for regulated eco-tourism.
- Inclusion of local communities in conservation efforts.
- Way Forward
- Strict enforcement of ESZ norms.
- Promote community-based conservation models.
- Strengthen monitoring using technology (GIS, drones).
UPSC Relevance:
• GS 3: Environment – Biodiversity conservation
• GS 2: Governance – Environmental regulation and judiciary role