Illegal Roads Threaten Biodiversity in Srivilliputhur-Meghamalai Tiger Reserve

Quick Summary

• Concerns have been raised over unauthorised road construction within Srivilliputhur-Meghamalai Tiger Reserve (SMTR) in Tamil Nadu, violating environmental laws.
• Three roads were constructed or upgraded recently without required forest clearances:

– Road 1: Constructed by NABARD rural Roads Department, covering 140 metres inside Myladumparai Reserved Forest.
– Road 2: Renewed and blacktopped by Kadamalai-Mayilai Union across a stretch of approximately 1.76 km.
– Road 3: Strengthening works on the BT road spanning a total of 476.6 metres through three reserved forest sections.

• SMTR is an ecologically sensitive corridor linking the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala to Tamil Nadu’s forests and supports tigers,elephants,leopards,and other endemic wildlife species.
• Conservationists argue these activities could lead to habitat fragmentation and increased human-wildlife conflict.
• Official responses:

– Project proponents have been asked to apply for statutory clearances for all upcoming projects via the Parivesh portal.- srinivas R. reddy, Principal Chief conservator of Forests, assured adherence to due procedures for future roads.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The situation highlights critical gaps in compliance with environmental regulations aimed at protecting fragile ecosystems like SMTR. The tiger reserve serves as an essential wildlife corridor between two major reserves; illegal infrastructure development risks disrupting habitat connectivity and increasing conflicts between humans and wildlife.

While authorities are now mandating adherence to clearance procedures, proactive enforcement could prevent long-term ecological damage during future developments. Balancing infrastructural needs with conservation goals will remain pivotal-especially within India’s biodiverse Western Ghats region-requiring vigilant oversight aligned with sustainable practices. Ensuring transparency in decision-making processes may help address conservationist concerns effectively.

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