The forest department in Satara has taken a strict stand against environmental violations at the ecologically sensitive Kas Plateau. On Thursday, officials issued formal notices to multiple hotel and restaurant owners operating in the area for illegally dumping garbage within forest boundaries.
Exploitation of a UNESCO Heritage Site
Rajaram Kashid, the forest ranger of the Rohot range in the Satara forest department, highlighted the gravity of the situation. He pointed out that the Kas Plateau is a designated UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, a status that demands the highest level of protection. Despite this, several hospitality units have sprung up, and in the guise of providing tourist convenience, they are flouting rules and exploiting the forest.
Kashid explicitly accused these establishments of dumping plastic and food waste directly into the forest ecosystem. This irresponsible act is not just a matter of littering; it has severe ecological consequences that are now becoming alarmingly visible.
Waste Attracts Wildlife, Fuelling Conflict
The department directly links the dumped waste to a rise in dangerous encounters between humans and animals. Officials claim that the plastic and food waste discarded by hoteliers are primary attractants drawing wild animals out of their natural habitats and closer to human settlements.
"Some animals have turned towards human settlements due to eating the wasted food, and thus human-wildlife conflict is further increasing," Kashid added. This creates a perilous situation for both local residents and the wildlife, disrupting the natural balance of the region.
Increased Vigilance and Legal Threats
In response to the escalating problem, the forest department has ramped up its monitoring efforts. Patrolling has been intensified in the vicinity of the plateau to catch offenders in the act. The notices served are a clear first warning, indicating that the department is moving from awareness to enforcement.
The message from the authorities is unequivocal. "Strict and legal action will be taken against the hotel owners who are found defacing the environment and forest," Kashid stated. The department has warned that anyone found littering in the open will face serious legal repercussions. This action underscores a growing commitment to preserving India's natural heritage sites from commercial negligence.
