New Delhi, Nov 17 (UNI) The Supreme Court issued a series of far-reaching conservation directives to safeguard the Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, observing that the State of Uttarakhand must take concrete restoration measures to make up for the illegal tree felling that occurred inside the protected area.
A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India B R Gavai passed the directions, stressing that tourism in ecologically sensitive zones must strictly be “eco-tourism”, and that economic activity cannot be allowed at the cost of the environment.
The Court has listed specific activities that will stand prohibited in the buffer zone and catchment areas surrounding the reserve, with the objective of minimising human interference in these fragile ecosystems.
Highlighting the difficult working conditions of frontline forest staff operating deep inside the core areas and far from their families, the CJI directed that special consideration must be extended to these personnel, including upgraded infrastructure in forest camps.
The Court ordered that forest camps must be equipped with clean drinking water and other essential amenities, ensuring that those entrusted with protecting the reserve receive adequate support. The matter will continue to be monitored to ensure compliance with the Court’s conservation-focused directives.
