Kolhapur: Prakash Abitkar, the guardian minister for Kolhapur, has announced that he will formally request the state chief minister and the forest minister to reject the proposal for a corridor for the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve. The proposal, submitted to the Central government for approval two years ago, has drawn significant opposition due to its potential impact on over 550 villages in Kolhapur and neighbouring districts. The minister emphasised that the project would exacerbate the hardships faced by farmers, who are already struggling with the menace of wild animals.
Review Meeting Held at District Collector Office
A special review meeting was convened at the district collectorate on Monday evening to discuss the proposed corridor. The meeting was attended by key dignitaries, including MP Shahu Chhatrapati, MP Dhairyasheel Mane, MLA Vinay Kore, MLA Shivaji Patil, district collector Dr Vijay Rathod, chief conservator of forests (Kolhapur) Shreelakshmi Annabathula, deputy conservator of forests Dhairyasheel Patil, field director of Sahyadri Tiger Reserve Tushar Chavan, resident deputy collector Gajanan Gurav, and other officials. Additionally, the state principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife) Srinivas Reddy, the deputy director of Koyna Wildlife Division Kiran Jagtap, and the managing director of the Maharashtra State Biodiversity Board participated via an online platform.
Minister's Concerns Over Transparency and Democratic Principles
Addressing the meeting, Minister Abitkar stated, "Transparency is paramount when implementing projects, and making decisions without providing prior intimation regarding restrictions is contrary to democratic principles. The lives of people residing in this remote region for generations are already fraught with struggle; the proposed new corridor would impose severe restrictions on their daily lives and fundamental rights." He underscored the need for clear communication with affected communities before any decisions are made.
MPs and MLAs Voice Strong Opposition
MP Shahu Chhatrapati expressed deep concern regarding the infringement upon the rights of citizens. Similarly, MP Dhairyasheel Mane raised questions about the technical blueprint and geographical scope of the project. Taking into account the resentment among locals, Mane emphatically demanded that the administration consider actual ground realities rather than merely formulating theoretical plans. He stressed that the participation of locals in the development process is mandatory, and no decision running counter to their interests should be imposed upon them.
MLA Vinay Kore suggested that it is essential to pass a formal resolution regarding the new demarcation of the tiger reserve and submit it to the concerned department. Expressing his displeasure with the operational methodology adopted, MLA Shivaji Patil observed that keeping information about the project under wraps has created an atmosphere of fear and apprehension among the general public. He urged the forest department to safeguard the interests of the local population and, rather than merely imposing restrictions, prioritise the concept of coexistence.
Broader Implications for Local Communities
The proposed corridor, if approved, would affect hundreds of villages across multiple districts, potentially disrupting livelihoods and daily activities. Farmers, already vulnerable to wildlife conflicts, fear further restrictions on land use and movement. The meeting highlighted the need for a balanced approach that ensures both tiger conservation and the well-being of local residents. Officials acknowledged the importance of addressing community concerns before proceeding with any plans.
As the debate continues, the guardian minister's formal request to reject the proposal marks a significant step in the opposition movement. The outcome will depend on further discussions between state authorities and the central government, with local representatives vowing to protect the interests of their constituents.
