Notify tiger parks' core zones within 6 months: SC to states

NEW DELHI: Aiming to strengthen the existing regime for tiger protection, the Supreme Court on Monday issued a slew of directions to the states including giving a six-month deadline to demarcate and notify core and buffer areas of tiger reserves and put in place within three months comprehensive tiger conservation plans (TCPs).In one of his last of important judgments prior to retirement on Nov 23 relating to protection of environment, flora and fauna, CJI B R Gavai-led bench said a steering committee headed by the chief minister would be constituted for each tiger reserve within two months for implementation of the directions of the expert committee set up on SC's directions by the Union ministry of environment forest and climate change.The tourism in tiger reserves, which often turned into noisy late-night parties, would now have to conform to the guidelines set by the National Tiger Conservation Authority. The expert committee recommended designating tiger reserves and corresponding eco-sensitive areas as 'silence zones' and phasing out night safaris and banning the stay of tourists in core areas at night. On the presence of religious sites within tiger reserves, the bench said the influx of devotees must be regulated to avoid disturbance to the wildlife.

Importantly, the bench focused on improving the service condition of forest guards and personnel.Asking the ministry of environment and forest and central empowered committee to set up a special cell to give a report within a year on staffing pattern and cadre requirement in all tiger reserves, the bench said states will, based on the report, fill the posts. SC barred states from outsourcing of core patrolling roles and scientific posts and other personnel integral to management of tiger reserves.The forest staff should be permitted to retain their accommodation at a place of their choice while they are posted in remote areas.