Why is it in the News?

The Supreme Court on Wednesday condemned the illegal felling of over 6,000 trees to construct buildings, ostensibly for “eco-tourism” at the Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, as a “classic case” of nexus between politicians and officials working to ransack the environment for short-term commercial ends.

News Summary:

• In 2023, a series of applications brought attention to the creation of alleged illegal buildings and encroachment on water bodies, prompting court intervention.
• Petitioners highlighted violations of environmental norms and encroachment into core wildlife habitats.
• Evidence presented during proceedings revealed unauthorized constructions within the national park, including concrete and iron enclosures purportedly intended for a 'safari' experience.
• Moreover, it was disclosed that over 6,000 trees had been felled in the national park under the pretext of safari development.

Supreme Court’s Observations:

• The Court has raised concerns regarding the necessity of developing facilities within natural forest environments, particularly in areas designated for the protection of endangered species like tigers.
• Directing the Government to establish a committee, the Supreme Court seeks recommendations on whether tiger safaris should be permitted in buffer or fringe areas and what guidelines should govern their establishment if allowed.
• Additionally, the Court has strongly criticized the illegal constructions and extensive tree felling in Uttarakhand's Corbett National Park.

What are the Core and Buffer Areas in Tiger Reserves?

• As per the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act of 2006, a Tiger Reserve comprises core or critical habitat and a buffer zone surrounding it.
• Core areas hold the legal status of a National Park or a Sanctuary.
• Buffer zones consist of a mix of forest and non-forest land, managed as a multiple-use area.
• The buffer area acts as a protective barrier, absorbing the impact of poaching pressure on tiger and other wildlife populations.

About Jim Corbett National Park:

• Location: Situated in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, Jim Corbett National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity.

Key Facts:

• Established in 1935, it is India’s oldest national park.
• Initially named Hailey National Park after its founder Sir Malcolm Hailey, it was renamed Corbett National Park in 1956 to honor Jim Corbett's contributions to wildlife preservation in India.
• Corbett National Park boasts the highest population of tigers in India, highlighting its importance for tiger conservation efforts.
• Flora: Dominated by Sal, Semal, Kharpat, Sissoo, Khair, Dhak, Khingan, Bakli, Bel, Ber, Bamboo, Khingam, Jamun, Kanju, Rohini, and Pula trees.
  • Sal, Khair, and Sissoo are prominently featured throughout the park.
• Fauna: Home to diverse wildlife including Tiger, Leopard, Elephant, Chital Deer, Sambar Deer, Hogg Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Langur, Wild pig, Rhesus Monkey, Jackal, Rabbit, Yellow Throated Martin, and Otters.
  • Various reptiles such as Crocodile, Gharial, King Cobra, Common Krait, Cobra, Russell's Viper, Rock Python, and Monitor Lizard inhabit the park.
• The Kosi River feeds the eastern periphery of Corbett National Park.
• The Ramganga River (West) and its tributaries Sonanadi, Palain, and Mandal serve as significant hydrological resources for the park.