IUCN Expert Calls for Site-Specific ESZ Around Kaziranga

Kaziranga: Dr Sanjib Barkakati, member and expert associated with IUCN, ICOMOS and UNESCO, has urged the Assam government to carefully redraw the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR), arguing that its width should be site-specific rather than uniform.

Barkakati raised concerns over proposed hotels in elephant corridors, rising tourism pressure and mining activities near the park. He cautioned that reducing the ESZ from the existing 10 km to a blanket 1 km could increase risks to wildlife and the park’s ecosystem, particularly along the southern hills that serve as catchment areas. He appealed for stronger environmental safeguards to protect Kaziranga’s long-term future.