National Wildlife Board Approves Highway Through Ranganthittu Eco-Sensitive Zone
The National Board for Wildlife's (NBWL) standing committee has given its approval for a highway project that will cut through the Ranganthittu eco-sensitive zone in Karnataka. This decision was made during the committee's meeting on February 3, following a recommendation from the state's chief wildlife warden.
Project Details and Justification
The proposed highway will connect Bengaluru to Kushalanagar, aiming to enhance road safety and alleviate traffic congestion in the region. According to the chief wildlife warden of Karnataka, the project is deemed essential for these purposes, despite its path through a protected environmental area.
Key aspects of the approval include:
- The NBWL standing committee's endorsement based on safety and congestion concerns.
- Input from Karnataka's wildlife authorities highlighting the necessity of the highway.
- Potential impacts on the Ranganthittu eco-sensitive zone, which is known for its biodiversity.
Environmental and Infrastructure Balance
This development underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing infrastructure needs with environmental conservation. The Ranganthittu zone is a critical habitat, and the highway's construction through it raises questions about mitigation measures and long-term ecological effects.
Authorities have emphasized that the project will proceed with considerations for minimizing environmental disruption, though specific details on safeguards were not fully disclosed in the initial announcement.
The approval marks a significant step in Karnataka's transportation planning, reflecting priorities in improving connectivity while navigating complex ecological regulations.
