Eco-Zone Expansion Near Dalma Sanctuary Sparks Controversy

624 properties affected as Forest Dept issues notices under new NGT guidelines

Jamshedpur faces upheaval as eco-sensitive zone around Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary expands, impacting hundreds of properties.

JAMSHEDPUR – The Forest Department has identified 624 houses and structures now within the newly demarcated eco-sensitive zone around Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, sparking controversy in Jamshedpur.

Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Saba Alam Ansari issued notices to affected property owners under the Environment (Protection) Act.

The expansion, mandated by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), dramatically increased the number of affected properties from an initial estimate of 250.

Affected areas include Dimna, Baliguma, Kandrabeda, Mirzadih, Pardih, Asanbani, Shahrabeda, and parts of Mango.

Notices demand detailed documentation from property owners, including land papers and information about business activities.

DFO Ansari stated, "We are conducting this survey in compliance with NGT orders. An Special Investigation Team has been formed to oversee the process."

The Forest Department is scrutinizing all construction work from 2012 to the present, with potential relief for structures predating 2012 under consideration.

Hearings are scheduled for the second week of August, where property owners must present their case or face potential legal action.

The expansion has raised questions about urban planning, environmental conservation, and property rights in Jamshedpur.

Local authorities are struggling to balance ecological preservation with the needs of a growing urban population.