Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 09:46am on 14 Aug 2026,Friday India
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has proposed reducing the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) around Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve from the default 10 km to 1 km. The state plans to submit the proposal to the Centre within two months, arguing that the existing buffer restricts development projects and civic infrastructure around Bokakhat. The proposal has triggered concern among conservationists, who warn that a smaller buffer could threaten wildlife corridors and habitats used by elephants, rhinos, tigers and other animals, particularly during annual floods. The existing 10-km protection will remain until any new site-specific ESZ is formally notified. (PC: X)
