Experts Urge Sustainable Development in Uttarakhand at Doon Library Panel
A significant panel discussion titled ‘Paryavaran Samvad: Reimagining Development in Uttarakhand' was convened at the Doon Library in Dehradun on Saturday. The event brought together a diverse group of experts who expressed deep concern over escalating environmental degradation and severe traffic congestion plaguing the Doon Valley. The dialogue emphasized the critical and immediate necessity to reduce carbon footprints and protect biodiversity within the state's overarching development framework.
Forest Conservation and Environmental Challenges
During the first session focused on forest conservation, panellists unanimously asserted that forests must not be regarded merely as timber resources but as the essential lifeline of Uttarakhand, demanding long-term protection and sustainable management strategies. The discussion featured three former heads of forest force and principal chief conservators of forests: Jairaj, Rajiv Bhartari, and Dhananjay Mohan, alongside scientists, policymakers, advocates, and other civil society members.
Jairaj highlighted the practical constraints faced by the forest department, noting that political pressures and limited resources frequently hinder effective conservation efforts. Rajiv Bhartari spoke about the historical significance of forests and raised alarms over recurring forest fires, particularly in areas like Bharoli. He referenced the Mana Van Panchayat, which spans an area larger than Corbett National Park, pointing to the immense management challenges posed by such vast forest tracts.
Dhananjay Mohan underscored the growing tension between development and conservation. He observed that in this era of modernization and digital connectivity, rural aspirations are rapidly changing, leading to increased pressure on forest resources. Mohan suggested promoting eco-tourism initiatives, such as birdwatching, as sustainable alternatives to mitigate this pressure.
Environmental advocate Snigdha Tiwari addressed the pressing issue of encroachments and illegal constructions along riverbanks in Uttarakhand, providing a legal perspective on environmental protection and the need for stricter enforcement.
Urban Development and Traffic Management in Dehradun
The second session, titled ‘Urban Development and Traffic Management in Dehradun', concentrated on infrastructure and sustainable city planning. Jagdish Chandra Pant, CO traffic for Dehradun, flagged the mounting traffic pressure in the capital and the significant strain on road infrastructure. He urgently called for citizen cooperation to achieve safer and more organized traffic management.
Professor Tina Pujara of IIT Roorkee and Professor Rajendra Pandey of the National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, both stressed that urbanization must align with sustainable development principles. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that water sources and the broader environment are not compromised in the pursuit of urban growth.
Moderating the session, Abhijay Negi, founder of MAD by BTD, highlighted the crucial role of court interventions and public interest litigations (PILs) in environmental matters. He asserted that environmental protection is not solely the government's responsibility but a collective duty of society, requiring active participation from all stakeholders.
The dialogue was organized by a local youth group under the banner of MAD by BTD, with the primary aim of exploring practical ways to balance development with environmental protection in Uttarakhand. The event served as a vital platform for fostering collaborative solutions to the state's pressing ecological and urban challenges.
