Date:04/06/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/06/04/stories/2007060413600100.htm

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Buffer zone: Cabinet to consider proposal

Roy Mathew

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Cabinet will again consider the proposal for the declaration of a buffer zone for the Silent Valley National Park shortly. It had deferred a decision on the proposal earlier after Electricity Minister A.K. Balan objected to it on the ground that it would affect the realisation of the proposed Pathrakadavu hydroelectric project.

However, Mr. Balan and the CPI (M) were understood to have reneged on their opposition after it was clarified that the buffer zone would not have a sanctuary status. Hence, it would be legally possible to undertake construction works and planting operations in the buffer zone. (There are private and Forest Department plantations in the area). The proposal is likely to come before the Cabinet on Wednesday. Mr. Balan is unlikely to attend the Cabinet meeting and the proposal is expected to have a smooth passage.

The buffer zone will have a total area of nearly 148 sq.km. carved out of Attappady, Mannarkkad and Kallikavu ranges. The formation of the buffer zone would only mean the creation of new administrative units for managing the area, including a new forest range (Bhavani Forest Range) under the Wildlife Warden of the Silent Valley National Park. The area will not have the legal status of a protected area. As per the original proposal, mooted during the UDF rule, 59 additional posts, including that of an Assistant Wildlife Warden, was to the created for the management of the buffer zone. However, the Finance Department had objected to this and the number of new posts had been reduced to 35.

It is expected that the posting of additional staff will help to check the illicit cultivation of ganja, poaching and illicit brewing in the proposed buffer zone, especially in the area presently under the Mannarkkad forest division.