Western Ghats to Get New Protection Status… But Why Are Two States Still Opposing the Plan?

One of India’s most ecologically significant regions could soon receive stronger environmental protection, with sources indicating that parts of the Western Ghats across Gujarat, Goa, and Maharashtra are likely to be officially declared Eco-Sensitive Areas (ESAs).

The move is being viewed as a major step toward safeguarding a mountain range that is widely recognised as one of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots.

Stretching along India’s western coast, the Western Ghats are home to thousands of unique plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. Environmental experts have long warned that unchecked development, mining and industrial expansion could threaten this fragile ecosystem.

What Is the Proposal?

The proposed eco-sensitive notification is based on recommendations made by a high-level committee led by former ISRO Chairman K. Kasturirangan.

The plan originally aimed to bring approximately 56,000 square kilometres of Western Ghats territory under environmental protection across six states:

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• Gujarat
• Goa
• Maharashtra
• Kerala
• Karnataka
• Tamil Nadu

The objective was to strike a balance between conservation and development while ensuring long-term ecological sustainability.

What Activities Could Be Restricted?

If implemented, the eco-sensitive designation would place strict controls on activities considered harmful to the environment.

Among the activities proposed for restriction or prohibition are:

• Mining operations
• Coal-based power plants
• Large industrial projects
• Polluting industries
• Major construction activities

The policy is intended to reduce environmental degradation while encouraging sustainable development models that benefit local communities without damaging natural habitats.

Supporters of the proposal argue that stronger safeguards are necessary to preserve water resources, forests, wildlife and climate stability in the region.

Why Are Kerala and Karnataka Opposed?

Despite the environmental benefits highlighted by conservationists, the proposal has faced resistance from some states.

According to sources, Kerala and Karnataka have not fully supported the current framework.

Concerns raised in the past have often centred around the possible impact on farmers, local residents, infrastructure projects and economic development opportunities within affected areas.

State governments have argued that restrictions should not negatively affect the livelihoods of people living in the region.

The disagreement has become one of the key reasons why the broader six-state proposal has yet to be implemented in its original form.

A Critical Region for India’s Ecology

The Western Ghats are considered among India’s most valuable natural assets.

The mountain range plays a crucial role in regulating rainfall patterns, supporting river systems and sustaining rich biodiversity across several states.

Scientists have repeatedly stressed that protecting the ecosystem is essential not only for wildlife conservation but also for millions of people who depend on the region’s forests and water resources.

What Happens Next?

With Gujarat, Goa, and Maharashtra expected to move forward under the eco-sensitive framework, attention will now shift to whether consensus can eventually be reached with the remaining states.

Environmental groups have welcomed the development, viewing it as an important step toward protecting one of India’s most treasured ecological landscapes.

At the same time, policymakers will need to address concerns raised by local communities and state governments to ensure that conservation efforts are both effective and socially sustainable.

As discussions continue, the future of the Western Ghats remains at the centre of one of India’s most important environmental debates.