Explanation:

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has issued a draft notification delineating an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary on the Haryana side.

Purpose of ESZs:
Eco-Sensitive Zones are designated areas surrounding protected wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that serve as buffer zones. They play a crucial role in:

• Conservation: Protecting biodiversity and natural habitats.
• Mitigation of Human-Animal Conflict: Reducing interactions between wildlife and human populations, which can lead to conflicts.
• Regulating development: Limiting environmentally harmful activities within these zones to safeguard ecological integrity.

The concept of Eco-Sensitive Zones was introduced in India as part of the Wildlife Conservation Strategy in 2002, recognizing areas with significant natural resources that require special conservation measures.

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Shivalik foothills of Chandigarh, India, is a significant ecological reserve that spans approximately 25.98 square kilometers (about 6,420 acres). Established in 1998, the sanctuary plays a crucial role in preserving the biodiversity of the region, particularly as it encompasses the catchment area of the iconic Sukhna Lake.

Biodiversity

The sanctuary is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including:

• Schedule I Species: These endangered animals require immediate protection and include leopards, Indian pangolins, sambars, golden jackals, king cobras, pythons, and monitor lizards.
• Other Fauna: The sanctuary also hosts several Schedule II species such as various reptiles, butterflies, and over 250 bird species. Notable birds include the Indian Grey Hornbill and Indian Peafowl.

Flora

The sanctuary's landscape is characterized by a mix of forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The diverse flora supports numerous endemic trees and plants that contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem.

Conservation efforts

In light of its ecological significance, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has proposed an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary. This ESZ extends from 1 km to 2.035 km from the sanctuary's boundaries and aims to mitigate human-animal conflicts while regulating developmental activities that could threaten the sanctuary's biodiversity.