The Supreme Court on Monday ordered the Uttarakhand government to undertake full ecological restoration in the Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, directing the state to undo environmental damage caused by illegal tree felling and unauthorised constructions.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India B R Gavai, along with Justices Surya Kant and MM Sundresh, issued a set of mandatory directions. The court instructed the Chief Wildlife Warden to work in consultation with the Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC) to ensure that all unauthorised structures inside the reserve are demolished within three months.
“The CEC shall supervise the ecological restoration plan developed by Uttarakhand,” the court said, adding that the state must also take steps to compensate for the illegal cutting of trees.
CJI Gavai stressed that the reserve must be protected from unsustainable tourism practices. “If tourism has to be promoted, it has to be eco-tourism,” he said while pronouncing the order. He also noted that the court had “directed special treatment to those working in the core area away from their families.”
The Bench directed the state to “restore and repair the ecological damage caused to the Corbett Tiger Reserve” and laid down additional conditions regarding the proposed tiger safari. It held that any safari project must comply with the 2019 rules and must be supported by properly established rescue centres to provide treatment and care to wildlife. These centres should be located close to the safari area. The court further said the number of vehicles allowed must be regulated to protect the fragile ecosystem.
The state has also been asked to frame a comprehensive tiger conservation plan within three months.
A detailed judgment is awaited.
