Full Text
REGD. No. D. L.-33004/99
The Gazette of India
CG-DL-E-02062026-273075
EXTRAORDINARY
PART II-Section 3-Sub-section (ii)
PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY
No. 2562] | NEW DELHI, TUESDAY, MAY 26, 2026/JYAISTHA 5, 1948
3752 GI/2026 | (1)
2 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Draft Notification
WHEREAS, the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Chalakkudy taluk (formerly
known as Mukundapuram taluk) of Thrissur district in the State of Kerala. It is spread over an area of
114.60 sq. km and lies between 10°29'5.9892" N to 10°22'5.7072" N latitudes and 76°24'56.754" E to
76°33'38.6424" E longitudes.
AND WHEREAS, the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary was formed from Kodassery Reserve in
Palappilly range of Chalakudy Forest Division vide G.O. (P) No. 259/84/AD, dated 25.08.1984. The
sanctuary is an abode to 53 species of mammals, 182 species of birds, 46 species of reptiles, 38 species of
amphibians, 31 species of fishes and invertebrate species such as butterflies (24 species), odonates (56
species) etc.
AND WHEREAS, the major flora found in and around Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Pali
(Palaquium ellipticum), Nangue (Mesua ferrea), Vediplavu (Cullenia exarillata), Kalpine (Dipterocarpus
indicus), Kambakam (Hopea parviflora), Vellakil (Dysoxylum malabaricum), Vetti (Aporosa lindleyana),
Thelly (Canarium strictum), Nasakam (Melicope lunu-ankenda), Kurangumanjal (Mallotus philippensis),
Manjakadambu (Haldina cordifolia), Elavu (Bombax ceiba), Vembu (Toona ciliate), Njaval (Syzygium
cumini), Vellilavu (Lagerstroemia microcarpa), Karuva (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), Nasakam (Melicope
lunuankenda), Chenkolli (Mallotus philippensis), Maruthu (Terminalia paniculate), Karimaruthu
(Terminalia tomentosa), Thanni (Terminalia bellirica), Chalavaka (Albizia procera), Pala (Alstonia
scholaris), Veeti (Dalbergia latifolia), Vellilavu (Lagerstroemia microcarpa), Irul (Xylia xylocarpa), Kaini
(Bridelia retusa), Pezhu (Careya arborea), Kannikonna (Cassia fistula), Punna (Dillenia pentagyna), and
Bamboo (Bambusa arundinacea).
AND WHEREAS, the major fauna found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Tiger
(Panthera tigris), Leopard (Panthera pardus), Wild dog (Cuon alpinus), Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus),
Elephant (Elephas maximus), Sambar Deer (Rusa unicolor), Spotted Deer (Axis axis), Barking Deer
(Muntiacus muntjac), Mouse Deer (Moschiola indica), Bonnet macaque (Macaca radiate), Malabar Giant
Squirrel (Ratufa indica), Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus), Jungle Cat (Felis chaus), Asian Palm
Civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus), Small Indian Civet (Viverricula indica), Golden Jackal (Canis
aureus), and Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), among many others.
AND WHEREAS, the major avifauna found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Little
Cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger), Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis), Little Green Heron (Bulorides striatus),
Oriental Honey-Buzzard (Pernis ptilorhynchus), Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus), Black Eagle (Ictinaetus
malaiensis), Grey Junglefowl (Gallus sonneratii), River Tern (Sterna aurantia), Emerald Dove
(Chalcophaps indica), Spotted Dove (Spilopelia chinensis), Mountain imperial pigeon (Ducula badia),
Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri), Pied Crested Cuckoo (Clamator jacobinus), Large Hawk-
Cuckoo (Hierococcyx sparverioides), Indian Cuckoo (Cuculus micropterus), Asian Koel (Eudynamys
scolopaceus), Brown Hawk-Owl (Ninox scutulata), Alpine Swift (Tachymarptis melba), Small Blue
Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), Lesser Pied Kingfisher (Cervyle rudis), Crimson-throated Barbet (Megalaima
rubricapillus), Rufuos Woodpecker (Celeus brachyurus), Common Golden- backed Woodpecker
(Dinopium javanense), Dusky Crag-Martin (Hirundo concolor), Yellow Wagtail (Molacilla flava), Scarlet
Minivet (Pericrocotus flammeus), Black-crested Bulbul (Pycnonotus flaviventris), Asian Fairy-Bluebird
(Irena puella), Oriental Magpie-Robin (Copsychus saularis) Jungle Babbler (Turdoides striata), Greenish
3 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Leaf-Warbler (Phylloscopus trochiloides), Rusty-tailed Flycatcher (Muscicapa ruficauda), Red-throated
Flycatcher (Ficedula parva), Great Tit (Parus major), Indian Treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda), and Jungle
Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos), among many others.
AND WHEREAS, the major reptiles found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Indian
Black Turtle (Melanochelys trijuga), Travancore Tortoise (Indotestudo travancorica), Common Green
Forest Lizard (Calotes calotes), South Indian Rock Agama (Psammophilus dorsalis), Kollegal Ground
Gecko (Cyrtodactylus collegalensis), Common Keeled Skink (Eutropis carinata), Spotted Supple Skink
(Lygosonia punctata), Beddome's Cat Skink (Ristella beddomii), Brahminy Worm Snake (Indotyphlops
braminus), Indian Rock python (Python molurus), Common Trinket Snake (Coelognathus helena),
Common Kukri Snake (Oligodon arnensis), Common Wolf Snake (Lycodon aulicus), Common Indian
Krait (Bungarus caeruleus), Russel's Viper (Daboia russelii), Malabar Pit Viper (Trimeresurus
malabaricus), Checkered Keelback (Fowlea piscator), and Common Hump-nosed Pit Viper (Hypnale
hypnale).
AND WHEREAS, the major amphibians found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include
Common Indian Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus), Skittering Frog (Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis), Indian
Bullfrog (Hoplobatrachus tigerinus), Indian Burrowing Frog (Sphaerotheca breviceps), Ornate Narrow-
mouthed Frog (Microhyla ornata), Purple Frog (Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis), Fungoid Frog
(Hydrophylax malabarica), Anamallais Leaping frog (Indirana brachytarsus), Common Indian Tree Frog
(Polypedates maculatus), Water Drop Frog (Raorchestes nerostagona), Malabar Gliding Frog
(Rhacophorus malaharicus), Variable Bush Frog (Raorchestes akroparallagi), Bicoloured Frog
(Clinotarsus curtipes), and Darrel's Chorus Frog (Microhyla darreli), among many others.
AND WHEREAS, the major fishes found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Common
Carp (Cyprinus caprio communis), Scarlet banded (Puntis amphibious), Giant danio (Danio
aequipinnatus), Guenther's loach (Nemacheilus guentheri), Triangular banded (Nemacheilus triangularis),
Denson's loach (Nemacheilus denisoni), Malabar loach (Lepidocephalus thermalis), Striped dwarf catfish
(Mystus vittalus), Indian butter catfish (Ompok bimaculatus Bloch), Stinging catfish (Heteropnuestès
fossilitus Bloch), and Fresh water garfish (Xenentodon cancila Ham.), among many others.
AND WHEREAS, the major butterflies found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Plain
Cupid (Luthrodes pandava), Angled Pierrot (Caleta decidia), Common Cerulian (Jamides celeno),
Common hedge blue (Acytolepis puspa), Common Bluebottle (Graphium sarpedon), Crimson rose
(Atrophaneura hector), Common Emigrant (Catopsilia pomona), Chestnut streaked Sailer (Neptis jumbah),
Blue Tiger (Tirumala limniace), Slate Flash (Rapala manea), Chestnut Angle (Odontoptilum angulata),
Red Helen (Papilio helenus), Mottled Emigrant (Catopsilia pyranthe), and Chocolate Pansy (Junonia
iphita), among several others.
AND WHEREAS, the forests of the sanctuary embracing the Chimmony Reservoir attains greatest
conservation value by providing irrigation water to thousands of hectares of agricultural land in Thrissur
District and hence the prime reason for protecting and developing the sanctuary for posterity.
AND WHEREAS, the sanctuary area mainly comprises of forests in the Chimmony valley on the
western slopes of the Nelliampathies, which ensures ecological continuity of the Anamalai-Anamudi
conservation unit, covering an area of 4705 sq. km. The sanctuary is part of the Anamudi Elephant Reserve
in the State, with a total forest area of 3728 sq. km. with a density of 0.20 elephants/sq.km. The sanctuary is
a representative example of the southern Western Ghats with scenic splendour. The Sanctuary has high
potential for scientific research and conservation education.
AND WHEREAS, it is necessary to conserve and protect the area, surrounding the boundaries of
Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary which are specified in paragraph 1 as Eco-sensitive Zone from ecological,
4 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
environmental and biodiversity point of view and to prohibit industries or class of industries and their
operations and processes in the said Eco-sensitive Zone;
NOW THEREFORE, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) and clauses (v) and
(xiv) of sub-section (2) and sub-section (3) of section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (Act 29
of 1986) (hereafter in this notification referred to as the Environment Act) read with sub-rule (3) of rule 5
of the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, the Central Government hereby notifies an area to an extent
varying of 0 (zero) to 7.5 km around the boundary of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary in the State of Kerala
as Eco-sensitive Zone (hereafter in this notification referred to as the Eco-sensitive Zone) details of which
are as under, namely:-
1. Extent and boundaries of Eco-Sensitive Zone-
(1) The Eco-sensitive Zone shall be to an extent of 0 (zero) to 7.5 km around the boundary of Chimmony
Wildlife Sanctuary and the area of the Eco-sensitive zone is 102.73 sq. km. The extent of Eco-sensitive
Zone at various directions is given below:
Direction | From the Boundary of the Protected Area (in km)
North | 0
East | 0.2
South East | 0
South | 2.08 -7.07
South West | 0.5
West | 1.94 - 7.5
Justification for 0 (zero) ESZ: Towards north direction, ESZ is kept zero due to sharing of boundary with
Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary. In the south-eastern direction, ESZ is kept zero due to sharing of
boundary with Parambikulam Tiger Reserve.
(2) The boundary description of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary and its Eco-sensitive zone is appended as
Annexure-IA and Annexure-IB.
(3) The maps of Eco-sensitive zone of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary are appended as Annexure-IIA,
Annexure-IIB and Annexure-IIC.
(4) List of geo-coordinates of the boundary of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary and Eco-Sensitive Zone is
appended as Annexure-IIIA & Annexure-IIIB.
(5) The list of villages falling in the proposed eco-sensitive zone is given in Annexure-IV.
2. Zonal Master Plan for the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary Eco-Sensitive Zone.
(1) The State Government shall, for the purposes of the Eco-sensitive Zone prepare a Zonal Master Plan
within a period of two years from the date of publication of this notification in the Official Gazette, in
consultation with local people and adhering to the stipulations given in this notification for approval of
the competent authority in the State Government.
(2) The Zonal Master Plan for the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be prepared by the State Government in such
manner as is specified in this notification and also in consonance with the relevant Central and State
laws and the guidelines issued by the Central Government, if any.
5 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
(3) The Zonal Master Plan shall be prepared in consultation with the following Departments of the State
Government, for integrating the ecological and environmental considerations into the said plan:-
(i) Environment;
(ii) Forest;
(iii) Urban Development;
(iv) Tourism;
(v) Municipal;
(vi) Revenue;
vii) Irrigation;
viii) Local Self Government Department;
ix) Public Works Department;
x) State Pollution Control Board.
(4) The Zonal Master Plan shall not impose any restriction on the approved existing land use,
infrastructure and activities, unless so specified in this notification and the Zonal Master Plan shall
factor in improvement of all infrastructure and activities to be more efficient and eco-friendly.
(5) The Zonal Master Plan shall provide for restoration of denuded areas, conservation of existing water
bodies, management of catchment areas, watershed management, groundwater management, soil and
moisture conservation, needs of local community and such other aspects of the ecology and
environment that need attention.
(6) The Zonal Master Plan shall demarcate all the existing worshipping places, village and urban
settlements, types and kinds of forests, agricultural areas, fertile lands, green area, such as, parks and
like places, horticultural areas, orchards, lakes and other water bodies.
(7) The Zonal Master Plan shall regulate development in Eco-sensitive Zone and adhere to prohibited and
regulated activities listed in the Table in paragraph 4 and also ensure and promote eco-friendly
development for livelihood security of the local communities
(8) The Zonal Master Plan shall be co-terminus with the Regional Development Plan.
(9) The Zonal Master Plan so approved shall be the reference document for the Monitoring Committee
for carrying out its functions of monitoring in accordance with the provisions of this notification.
3. Measures to be taken by the State Government. - The State Government shall take the following
measures for giving effect to the provisions of this notification, namely:
(1) Land use. - (a) Forests, horticulture areas, agricultural areas, parks and open spaces earmarked for
recreational purpose in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall not be used or converted into areas for major
commercial or major residential complex or industrial activities.
6 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Provided that the conversion of agriculture and other land within the ESZ for the purpose other than that
specified at part (a) above, within the Eco-sensitive Zone may be permitted on the recommendation of the
Monitoring committee and with the prior approval of the competent authority under Regional Town
Planning Act and other rules and regulations of Central/State Government as applicable and vide provisions
of this notification, to meet the residential needs of the local residents such as:
(i) Widening and strengthening of the existing roads and construction of new roads;
(ii) Construction and renovation of infrastructure and civic amenities;
(iii) Small scale industries not causing pollution
(iv) Cottage industries including village industries; convenience stores and local amenities
supporting ecotourism including home stay; and
(v) Promoted activities and given under para 4
Provided further that no use of tribal land shall be permitted for commercial and industrial development
activities without the prior approval of the competent authority under Regional Town Planning Act and
other rules and regulations of State Government and without compliance of the provision of the article 224
of the Constitution or the law for the time being in force, including the Scheduled Tribes and Other
Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 ( 2 of 2007):
Provided also that any error appearing in the land records with in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be
corrected by the State Government, after obtaining the views of the Monitoring Committee, once in each
case and the correction of said errors shall be intimated to the Central Government in the Ministry of
Environment, Forest and Climate Change:
Provided also that above correction of error shall not include change of land use in any case except as
provided under this sub-paragraph;
(b) Efforts shall be made to reforest the unused or unproductive agriculture areas with afforestation and
habitat restoration activities.
(2) Natural water bodies. - The catchment areas of all-natural springs/rivers/channels shall be
identified and plans for their conservation and rejuvenation shall be incorporated in the zonal
master plan.
(3) Tourism or Eco-Tourism. - (a) All new eco-tourism activities or expansion of existing tourism
activities within the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be as per the Tourism Master Plan for the eco
sensitive zone;
7 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
(b) The Tourism Master Plan shall be prepared by the State Department of Tourism in consultation
with the State Departments of Environment, Forests and Wildlife, in association with State
Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala;
(c) the Tourism Master Plan shall form a component of the Zonal Master Plan;
(d) the Tourism Master Plan shall be drawn based on the study of carrying capacity of the Eco-
sensitive Zone;
(e) the activities of eco-tourism shall be regulated as under, namely:-
i. No new construction of hotels and resorts shall be allowed within 1 km from the boundary
of the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary or up to the extent of the Eco-Sensitive Zone
whichever is nearer:
Provided that beyond the distance of the 1 km from the boundaries of the protected area till the
extent of the Eco-Sensitive Zone, the establishment of new hotels and resorts shall be allowed
only in predefined and designated areas for eco-tourism facilities as per Tourism Master Plan;
ii. all new tourism activities or expansion of existing tourism activities within the Eco-Sensitive
Zone shall be in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Central Government in the
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Eco-tourism guidelines issued
by National Tiger Conservation Authority (as amended from time to time) with emphasis on
eco-tourism.
iii. until the zonal master plan is approved, development for tourism and expansion of existing
tourism activities in the Eco-Sensitive Zone areas falling outside forest lands shall be
permitted by the concerned regulatory authorities based on the actual site-specific scrutiny
and recommendation of the monitoring committee and no new hotels/ resorts or commercial
establishment construction is permitted within Eco-Sensitive Zone Area.
(4) Natural Heritage.- All sites of valuable natural heritage in the Eco-Sensitive Zone, such as the
gene pool reserve areas, rock formations waterfalls, springs, gorges, groves, caves, points, walks
rides, cliffs, etc. shall be identified and preserved and a heritage conservation plan shall be drawn
up for their preservation and conservation as a part of the Zonal Master plan.
(5) Man-made Heritage sites.- Buildings, structures, artefacts, areas and precincts of historical,
architectural, aesthetic, and cultural significance shall be identified in the Eco-Sensitive Zone and
heritage conservation plan for their conservation shall be prepared as part Zonal Master plan.
(6) Noise pollution. - Prevention and control of noise pollution in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be
complied with in accordance with Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 under the
Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and amendments thereto.
8 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
(7) Air Pollution. - Prevention and control of air pollution in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be complied
with in accordance with the provisions of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
(14 of 1981) and rules made there under and amendments thereto.
(8) Discharge of effluents. - Discharge of treated effluents in Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be in
accordance with the provisions of the General Standards for Discharge of Environmental Pollutants
covered under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986 and rules made there under or standards
stipulated by State Government whichever is more stringent.
(9) Solid wastes. - Disposal and Management of solid wastes shall be as under:-
a. the solid waste disposal and management in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be carried out in
accordance with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 and published by the Government of
India in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change vide notification number S.O.
1357(E), dated the 8th April, 2016 and as amended from time to time; the inorganic material may be
disposed in an environmental acceptable manner at site identified outside the Eco-Sensitive Zone;
b. Safe and Environmentally Sound Management (ESM) of solid wastes in conformity with the
existing rules and regulations using identified technologies may be allowed within the Eco-
Sensitive Zone.
(10) Bio-Medical Waste.- Bio medical waste management shall be as under:-
a. The bio-medical waste disposal in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be carried out in accordance
with the Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016 published by the Government of India
in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change vide Notification number GSR
343(E), dated the 28th March, 2016, as amended from time to time.
b. Safe and Environmentally Sound Management (ESM) of Bio-medical wastes in conformity
with the existing rules and regulations using identified technologies may be allowed within
Eco-Sensitive Zone.
(11) Plastic Waste Management.- The Plastic Waste Management in the Eco-Sensitive Zone
shall be carried out as per the provisions of the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 published
by the Government of India in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change vide
notification number G.S.R. 340(E), dated the 18th March, 2016, as amended from time to time.
(12) Construction and Demolition Waste Management. - The Construction and Demolition
Waste Management in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be carried out as per the provisions of the
Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2016 published by the Government of
India in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change vide notification number G.S.R
317(E), dated the 29th March, 2016 as amended from time to time.
(13) E-Waste. - The E-Waste Management in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be carried out as per
the provisions of the E-Waste Management Rules, 2016 published by the Government of India in
the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and as amended from time to time.
9 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
(14) Vehicular Traffic. - The vehicular movement of traffic shall be regulated in a habitat
friendly manner and specific provisions in the regard shall be incorporated in the Zonal Master
Plan and till such time as the Zonal Master plan is prepared and approved by the Competent
Authority in the State Government, the Monitoring Committee shall monitor compliance of
vehicular movement under the relevant Acts and the rules and regulations made there under.
(15) Vehicular pollution. - Prevention and control of Vehicular Pollution shall be complied
with in accordance with applicable laws. Efforts to be made for use of cleaner fuel like CNG, LPG,
etc.
(16) Industrial units.-
a. On or after the publication of this notification in the Official Gazette, no new polluting
industries shall be allowed to be set up within the Eco-Sensitive Zone.
b. Only non-polluting industries shall be allowed within Eco-Sensitive Zone as per Classification
of Industries in the guidelines issued by Central Pollution Control Board in February 2016, as
amended from time to time, unless so specified in this notification. In addition, non-polluting
cottage industries shall be promoted.
(17) Protection of hill slopes.- The protection of hill slopes shall be as under:-
a. the Zonal Master Plan shall indicate areas on hill slopes where no construction shall be
permitted;
b. no construction on existing steep hill slopes or slopes with higher degree of erosion shall be
permitted.
4. List of Activities Prohibited or to be regulated within Eco-Sensitive Zone.-
All activities in the Eco-Sensitive Zone of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary shall be governed by the
provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (29 of 1986), Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
(53 of 1972), Forest Act, 1927 (16 of 1927), Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 (69 of 1980) and other
applicable laws including the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ), 2011, Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, and amendments made thereto and other Acts prevalent in the
State. The forest area coming under the Eco-sensitive Zone will remain to be governed under existing
forest laws and amendments made thereto. Subject to the provisions of this paragraph, the activities in
the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be regulated in manner specified in the Table below, namely:-
Table
Sl. No. | Activity | Description
A. Prohibited Activities
1. | Commercial Mining | a) All new and existing (minor and major minerals), stone
| | quarrying and crushing units shall be prohibited with
| | immediate effect except for meeting the domestic needs
| | of bona fide local residents including digging of earth for
10 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
| | construction or repair of houses within Eco-sensitive
| | Zone;
| | b) The mining operations shall be carried out in accordance
| | with the order(s) of the Hon'ble Supreme Court dated
| | dated the 4th August, 2006 in the matter of T.N.
| | Godavarman Thirumulpad Vs. UOI in W.P.(C) No.202
| | of 1995; dated the 21st April, 2014 in the matter of Goa
| | Foundation Vs. UOI in W.P.(C) No.435 of 2012; and IA
| | No. 1000 of 2003 dated the 03rd June, 2022. IA No.
| | 131377 of 2022, judgment dated the 26th April, 2023 and
| | the 28th April, 2023 and subsequent judgment dated the
| | 23rd July 2025 in I.A Nos. 162023, 162034, 162154 and
| | 162155 of 2025 or any further orders regarding mining.
2 | Setting of industries causing | No new industries and expansion of existing polluting industries
| pollution (Water, Air, Soil, | in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be permitted. Only non-polluting
| noise, etc.,) | industries shall be allowed within Eco-Sensitive Zone as per
| | Classification of Industries in the guidelines issued by Central
| | Pollution Control Board in February 2016 and as amended from
| | time to time, unless so specified in this notification. In addition,
| | non-polluting cottage industries shall be promoted.
3 | Establishment of major | Prohibited as per applicable laws.
| hydroelectric project |
4 | Use, production, or | Prohibited as per applicable laws.
| processing of any hazardous |
| substances. |
5 | Discharge of untreated | Prohibited as per applicable laws.
| effluents in natural water |
| bodies or land area. |
6. | Establishment of solid waste | No new solid waste disposal site and waste treatment/processing
| disposal site and common | facility of solid waste are permitted within Eco-sensitive Zone.
| incineration facility for solid | Further, installation of common or individual incineration facility
| and bio medical waste | for treatment of any form of solid waste generated from industrial
| | process and health establishment/hospitals etc. is prohibited.
7. | Setting of saw mills. | No new or expansion of existing saw mills shall be permitted
| | within the Eco-sensitive Zones.
8. | Setting up of brick kilns | Prohibited as applicable laws.
9. | Commercial use of firewood. | Prohibited as applicable laws.
10. | Undertaking activities | Prohibited as applicable laws.
| related to tourism like over- |
| flying the National Park area |
| by any aircraft, hot-air |
| balloons. |
| | B. Regulated Activities
9. | Commercial establishment | No new commercial hotels and resorts shall be permitted within
| of hotels and resorts | one kilometre from the boundaries of the Protected Area or up to
| | the extent of Eco-Sensitive Zone, whichever is nearer, except for
| | accommodation for temporary occupation of tourists related to
11 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
| | Eco-friendly tourism activities:
| | Provided that new tourist activities or extension of existing
| | establishments may be allowed in accordance with Tourism
| | Master Plan and guidelines as applicable.
| | However, beyond one kilometre from the boundary of the
| | protected areas up to the extent of the Eco-sensitive Zones
| | establishment of hotels and resorts may be done subject to the
| | Zonal Master Plan.
10. | Construction Activities | a) No new commercial construction of any kind shall be
| | permitted within one kilometre from the boundaries of
| | the protected areas or up to the extent of Eco-sensitive
| | Zone or whichever is nearer:
| | Provided that, local people shall be permitted to undertake
| | construction in their land for their residential use including the
| | activities listed in sub-paragraph (1) of paragraph 3 as per
| | building bye-laws to meet the residential needs of the local
| | residence such as:
| | i. Widening and strengthening of existing
| | roads and construction of new roads;
| | ii. Construction and renovation of
| | infrastructure and civic amenities;
| | iii. Small scale industries not causing
| | pollution;
| | iv. Cottage industries including village
| | artisans; convenience stores and local
| | amenities supporting eco-tourism; and
| | v. Promoted activities listed in this
| | notification.
| | Provided that the construction activity related to small scale
| | industries not causing pollution shall be regulated at the
| | minimum, with the prior permission from the Competent
| | Authority as per applicable rules and regulations, if any.
| | vi. Beyond one kilometre, it shall be regulated as per the Zonal
| | Master Plan.
11. | Small scale Non-polluting | Non-polluting industries as per classification of Industries issued
| industries | by the Central Pollution Control Board in February 2016 and as
| | amended from time to time and non-hazards, small-scale and
| | service industry, agriculture, floriculture, horticulture or agro-
| | based industry producing products from indigenous materials
| | from the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be permitted by the Competent
| | Authority.
12. | Felling of Trees | (a) There shall be no felling of trees on the forest or
| | Government or revenue or private lands without prior
| | permission of the Competent Authority in the State
| | Government.
| | (b) The felling of trees shall be regulated in accordance with
| | the provisions of the concerned Central or State Act and
| | the rules made there under.
12 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
13. | Collection of Forest produce | Regulated as per the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional
| or Non-Timber Forest | Forest Dwellers [Recognition of Forest Rights] Act, 2006.
| Produce (NTFP) |
14. | Erection of electrical cables | Regulated under applicable laws. Promote underground cabling
| and communication towers. | method.
15. | Infrastructure including civic | Shall be done with mitigation measures, as per applicable laws,
| amenities | rules and regulation and available guidelines.
16. | Widening and strengthening | Shall be done with mitigation measures, as per applicable laws,
| of existing roads and | rules and regulation and available guidelines.
| construction of new roads. |
17. | Protection of Hill slopes and | Regulated under applicable laws.
| river banks. |
18. | Movement of vehicular | Regulated for commercial purpose under applicable laws.
| traffic at night. |
19. | Ongoing agriculture and | Permitted under applicable laws for use of locals.
| horticulture practices by |
| local communities along |
| with diaries, dairy farming, |
| aquaculture and fisheries. |
20. | Establishment of large scale | Regulated as per applicable laws.
| commercial livestock and |
| poultry farms by firms, |
| corporate, companies. |
21. | Discharge of untreated waste | The discharge of waste water/effluents shall be avoided to enter
| water/effluents in natural | into the water bodies. Efforts to be made for recycle and reuse of
| water bodies or land area. | treated waste water. Otherwise the discharge of treated waste
| | water/effluent shall be regulated as per applicable laws.
22. | Commercial extraction of | Regulated under applicable law.
| surface and ground water. |
23. | Open well, Bore well etc. for | Regulated and the activity should be strictly monitored by the
| agriculture or other usage. | appropriate authority.
24. | Solid Waste Management | Regulated under applicable law.
25. | Introduction of Exotic | Regulated under applicable law.
| species. |
26. | Eco-tourism | Regulated under applicable law.
27. | Use of polythene bags | Use of polythene bags are permitted within the Eco Sensitive
| | Zone. However, based on specific requirement, it shall be
| | regulated under applicable laws.
28. | Commercial Sign boards and | Regulated under applicable law.
| hoardings. |
| | C. Promoted Activities
29. | Rain water harvesting | Shall be actively promoted.
30. | Organic farming | Shall be actively promoted.
31. | Adoption of green | Shall be actively promoted.
| technology for all activities. |
32. | Cottage industries including | Shall be actively promoted.
| village artisans, etc. |
33. | Use of renewable energy and | Shall be actively promoted.
13 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
34. | Agro - Forestry | Shall be actively promoted.
35. | Plantation of horticulture and | Shall be actively promoted.
| herbals |
36. | Use of eco-friendly transport | Shall be actively promoted.
37. | Skill Development | Shall be actively promoted.
38. | Restoration of Degraded | Shall be actively promoted.
| Land/Forests/Habitat |
39. | Environmental Awareness | Shall be actively promoted.
5. Monitoring Committee for Monitoring the Eco-Sensitive Zone Notification-
In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (3) of section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act,
1986 (29 of 1986), the Central Government hereby constitutes a Committee to be called as the Monitoring
Committee, to monitor and ensure the compliance with the provisions of this notification. The Monitoring
Committee referred to in sub-paragraph (1) above, shall consist of the following members, namely:-
Sl. No. | Constituent of the Monitoring Committee | Designation
(i) | The District Collector, Thrissur, Palakkad | Chairman;
(ii) | The District Panchayat President, Thrissur | Member;
(iii) | Representatives of Kerala State Pollution Control | Members;
| Board/Kerala State Electricity Board/Kerala Water |
| Authority/Kerala State Irrigation Department / Kerala |
| State Environment Department |
(iv) | Representative of Non-Governmental Organization | Member;
| working in the field of natural conservation (including |
| heritage conservation) to be nominated by the |
| Government of Kerala |
(v) | One expert in Ecology from reputed Institution or | Member;
| University of the State of Kerala to be nominated by the |
| Government of Kerala |
(vi) | The Wildlife Warden, Peechi Wildlife Division | Member Secretary.
6. Terms of Reference of the Monitoring Committee -
(1)The Monitoring Committee shall monitor the compliance of the provisions of this notification.
(2) The tenure of the Monitoring committee is for three (3) years or till the re constitution of the new
Committee by the State Government and subsequently the Monitoring Committee would be constituted by
the State Government.
(3) The activities that are covered in the schedule to the notification of the Government of India in the
erstwhile Ministry of Environment and Forests number S.O. 1533(E), dated the 14th September 2006, and
are falling in Eco-sensitive Zone, except for the prohibited activities as specified in the table under
paragraph 4 thereof, shall be scrutinized by the Monitoring Committee based on the actual site-specific
conditions and referred to the Central Government in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change for prior environmental clearances under the provisions of the said notification.
(4) The activities that are not covered in the Schedule to the notification of the Government of India in the
erstwhile Ministry of Environment and Forests number S.O. 1533(E), dated the 14th September, 2006 and
are falling in Eco-sensitive Zone, except for the prohibited activities as specified in the table under
14 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
paragraph 4 thereof, shall be scrutinized by the Monitoring Committee based on the actual site-specific
conditions and referred to the concerned regulatory authority.
(5) The Member Secretary of Monitoring Committee shall be competent to file complaints under section 19
of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 against any person who contravenes the provisions of this
notification.
(6) The Monitoring Committee may invite representatives or experts from concerned Departments or
representative from Industry Associations or concerned stakeholders to assist in its deliberations depending
on the requirements on issue to issue basis.
(7) The Monitoring Committee shall submit the annual action taken report of its activities as on 31st March
of every year by 30th June of that year to the Chief Wildlife Warden in the state as per pro-forma given
Annexure-V, appended to this notification.
(8) The Central Government in the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change may give such
direction, as it deems fit, to the Monitoring Committee for effective discharge of its functions.
7. Additional measures. - The Central Government and State government may specify additional
measures, if any, for giving effect to the provision of this notification.
8. Supreme Court, etc. orders. - The provision of this notification shall be subject to the orders, if
any, passed or to be passed, by the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India or the High Court or National
Green Tribunal.
[F. No. 25/96/2015-ESZ-RE]
Dr. S. KERKETTA, Scientist 'G'
15 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure IA
Boundary description of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary
Direction | Description
North | The boundary lines starts from a station at about 1.2 km north-east of Mangattukomban
| along the inter taluk boundary of Thrissur and Mukundapuram and runs along the above said
| boundary towards east and meets with the district boundary of Thrissur and Palakkad, at
| Ponmudi at a height point of 3045 ft.
East | Thence the boundary line runs along the inter district boundary of Thrissur and Palakkad and
| reaches at Pumalai at a height point of 3665' passing height 1930', 2839', 1702', 3045',
| 2685' and 2534' and thence the line runs towards south-west direction and meets with
| Mundavalichal at about ½ km west of Kavalai incline passing height point of 1750'.
South | Thence the boundary line runs along the north of Muduvarachal towards southwest direction
| till the above chal meets with the Muplipuzha and thence along the northern bank of
| Muplipuzha till it reaches a station at about 1 km upstream of Mupli where Valkattuthodu
| joins with Muplipuzha.
West | Thence the boundary runs along the southern bank of Valkattuthodu towards southeast
| direction for a distance of about 1.5 km and thence to northeast direction and reaches at
| height point of 250' and then the boundary runs towards northeast direction for about 1 km.
| and thence towards northwest direction till it reaches at Chimmonypuzha at about 2.50 km.
| upstream of Chimmonypuzha from Anaipadam passing height points 1070', 1250' and 1327'
| and forming in a Parabolic shape. Thence the boundary runs along the southern bank of the
| Chimmonypuzha towards east for about 3 km. till it reaches at Chimmony at a height point
| of 135' and thence the boundary runs towards northwest direction and reaches at the starting
| point of the northern boundary of the area.
Annexure IB
Boundary Description of the Eco-Sensitive Zone of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary
Direction | Description
North | The boundary lines starts from the GPS point No. 1 (N10° 28'11.9” and E076° 25'06.9") on
| the Maghattukomban, common boundary of Peechi- Vazhani and Chimmony Wildlife
| Sanctuaries and runs towards the east along the Sanctuary boundary to meets Ponmudi, GPS
| point 2 (N10° 29′05.2", E76°28′47.1”), here the width of Eco-sensitive zone is Zero.
East | Thence the boundary runs towards the southeast direction, 200 meters away from the
| Sanctuary boundary till it reaches Karumalamudi (tri-junction of Alathur Range, Chimmony
| WLS & Parambikulam TR), GPS point 3 (N10°26′00.0”, E76°33′35.1”), here the width of
| ESZ is 200 meters, due to the steep slope towards eastern side.
South East | From here, the boundary runs towards the southwest direction along the Sanctuary boundary
| till it reaches Kavala, GPS point 4 (N 10°23′02.2”, E76°32′03.3”), here, the Sanctuary share
| its boundary with Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, hence the extent of ESZ is Zero.
South | Thence, the boundary runs towards east along the old range boundary of Pariyaram and
| Vellikulangara till it meets Kannankuzhitodu, GPS point 5 (N10°22′50.8”, E76°33′12.8”),
| from here the boundary runs towards south along the western bank of Kannankuzhitodu till it
| reaches GPS point 6 (N10°19′32.6”, E76°33′20.5") near to Koranganpara. From here, the
| boundary runs towards the west along the trek path till it reaches Randukai GPS point 7
| (N10°20'56.9", E76°28′10.5”). From here, the boundary further runs towards the west along
| the Reserve Forest boundary till it reaches Erungana, GPS point 8 (N10°21′29.7.
| E76°25′17.7). Thence, the boundary runs towards the northeast direction along the range
| boundaries of Vellikulangara and Pariyaram, till it meets the Sasthampoovam
| (10°21'58.03"N, 76°26'41.37"E). In this stretch, the width of the ESZ ranges from 2.08 km to
| 7.07 kilometres.
South West | From here, the boundary runs towards the northwest direction 500 meters away from the
| Sanctuary boundary till it reaches GPS point 9 (N10°23′35.6", E76°25'13.5").
West | Thence, the boundary runs along the eastern bank of Mupli Puzha, till it reaches the point
| where Chimmony Puzha confluence Mupli Puzha. From here, the boundary runs along the
| southern bank of Chimmony Puzha till it reaches GPS point 10, Pump house (N10°25′49.8",
| E76°23′53.7"). From here the boundary runs towards GPS point 11 (N10°26′09.7",
| E76°23′39.5") Chini Kunnu, thence the boundary runs towards the northwest direction along
| the reserve forest boundary till it reaches GPS point 12 (N10°26′44.1", E76°23′38.7")
| Valiyakkulam. From here the boundary runs towards the north along the stream till it reaches
| GPS point 13 (N10°27′15.2”, E76°23′51.2”) Muttalakappukad. From here, the boundary
| runs towards the west direction along the Reserve forest boundary till it reaches
| Nadampadam, GPS point 14 (N10°27′21.0”, E76°22′11.8”). Thence the boundary runs
| towards the east direction along the taluk boundary till it reaches the starting point, Here the
| width of the ESZ ranges from 1.94 to 7.50 km.
16 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure IIA
MAP OF ECO-SENSITIVE ZONE OF THE CHIMMONY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
ALONG WITH LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE OF PROMINENT LOCATIONS ON
SURVEY OF INDIA TOPO SHEET
GPS POINTS ON ESZ OF CWLS
SI No | Name | Latitude | Longitude
1 | Maghattukomban | 10°28′11.89″N | 76°25′06.91"E
2 | Ponmudi | 10°29′05.22″N | 76°28′47.06″E
3 | Karumalamudi | 10°25′59.97″N | 76°33′35.07″E
4 | Kavala | 10°23′02.18″N | 76°32′03.32″E
5 | Kannankuzhi Todu | 10°22′50.81″N | 76°33′12.80″E
6 | Koranganpara | 10°19′32.62″N | 76°33′20.46″E
7 | Randukai | 10°20′56.85″N | 76°28′10.46″E
8 | Erungana | 10°21′29.73″N | 76°25′17.71"E
9 | Muply | 10°23′34.89″N | 76°24′55.60″E
10 | Pump House | 10°25′49.83″N | 76°23′53.74″E
11 | Chini Kunnu | 10°26′09.74″N | 76°23′39.50″E
12 | Valiyakulam | 10°26′44.10″N | 76°23′38.65″E
13 | Muttalakappukadu | 10°27′15.18″N | 76°23′51.20″E
14 | Nadampadam | 10°27′21.04″N | 76°22′11.80″E
Legend
■ GPS points on CWLS ESZ
■ GPS Points on CWLS
Chimmony WLS
CWLS ESZ
17 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure IIB
MAP OF ECO-SENSITIVE ZONE OF THE CHIMMONY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
ALONG WITH LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE OF PROMINENT LOCATIONS ON
GOOGLE EARTH SATELLITE IMAGE
GPS POINTS ON ESZ OF CWLS
SI No | Name | Latitude | Longitude
1 | Maghattukomban | 10°28′11.89″N | 76°25′06.91"E
2 | Ponmudi | 10°29′05.22″N | 76°28′47.06″E
3 | Karumalamudi | 10°25′59.97″N | 76°33′35.07″E
4 | Kavala | 10°23′02.18″N | 76°32′03.32″E
5 | Kannankuzhi Todu | 10°22′50.81″N | 76°33′12.80″E
6 | Koranganpara | 10°19′32.62″N | 76°33′20.46″E
7 | Randukai | 10°20′56.85″N | 76°28′10.46″E
8 | Erungana | 10°21′29.73″N | 76°25′17.71"E
9 | Muply | 10°23′34.89″N | 76°24′55.60″E
10 | Pump House | 10°25′49.83″N | 76°23′53.74″E
11 | Chini Kunnu | 10°26′09.74″N | 76°23′39.50″E
12 | Valiyakulam | 10°26′44.10″N | 76°23′38.65″E
13 | Muttalakappukadu | 10°27′15.18″N | 76°23′51.20″E
14 | Nadampadam | 10°27′21.04″N | 76°22′11.80″E
Legend
■ GPS points on CWLS ESZ
■ GPS Points on CWLS
Chimmony WLS
CWLS ESZ
18 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure IIC
LOCATION MAP OF THE CHIMMONY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
MAP SHOWING THE LOCATION OF ECO-SENSITIVE
ZONES IN CHIMMONY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
KARANATAKA
TAMILNADU
ECO SENSITIVE ZONE
ARABIAN SEA
LEGEND
ESZ Boundary
PA Boundary
District Boundary
State Boundary
SCALE
1 centimeter = 20,000 meters
Activat
Set
19 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure IIIA
TABLE A: GEO-COORDINATES OF PROMINENT LOCATIONS ALONG THE
BOUNDARY OF CHIMMONY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY SHOWN ON MAP
Sl. No | Identification of | Location/Direction | Latitude | Longitude
| prominent points | of prominent points | (DMS Format) | (DMS Format)
1. | Manghattukomban | North | 10°28′02.57"N | 76°25′23.25"E
2. | Olakarakava | North | 10°28′47.71"N | 76°27′36.59″E
3. | Ponmudi | North | 10°29′03.88″N | 76°28′46.61"E
4. | Mangalamkava | East | 10°28′36.57"N | 76°29′44.05″E
5. | Vellimudi | East | 10°27′31.45"N | 76°31′53.44"E
6. | Karumalamudi | East | 10°26′34.04″N | 76°33′28.55"E
7. | Ivathi | South East | 10°25′23.78"N | 76°32′53.42"E
8. | Pundimudi | South East | 10°24′03.11"N | 76°31′32.45"E
9. | Kavala | South East | 10°23′02.40″N | 76°32′02.01"E
10. | Anapantham | South | 10°22′42.69"N | 76°30′38.04"E
11. | Karikadavu | South | 10°22′19.84"N | 76°26′40.81"E
12. | Chanimavu | West | 10°24′15.23"N | 76°27′51.81"E
13. | Vallikadu | West | 10°26′18.19″N | 76°26′05.77"E
20 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure IIIB
TABLE B: GEO-COORDINATES OF PROMINENT LOCATION ALONG THE
BOUNDARY OF ECO-SENSITIVE ZONE OF CHIMMONY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
SHOWN ON MAP
Sl. No | Identification of | Location/Direction | Latitude | Longitude
| prominent points | of prominent points | (DMS Format) | (DMS Format)
1. | Maghattukomban | North | 10°28′11.9″N | 76°25′06.9″E
2. | Ponmudi | North | 10°29′05.2"N | 76°28′47.1"E
3. | Karumalamudi | East | 10°26′00.0″N | 76°33′35.1″E
4. | Kavala | South East | 10°23′02.2″N | 76°32′03.3"E
5. | Kannankuzhi Todu | South | 10°22′50.8″N | 76°33′12.8″E
6. | Koranganpara | South | 10°19′32.6″N | 76°33′20.5″E
7. | Randukai | South | 10°20′56.9"N | 76°28′10.5"E
8. | Erungana | South | 10°21′29.7"N | 76°25′17.7"E
9. | Muply | South West | 10°23′34.9"N | 76°24′55.6″E
10. | Pump House | West | 10°25′49.8″N | 76°23′53.7"E
11. | Chini Kunnu | West | 10°26′09.7″N | 76°23′39.5"E
12. | Valiyakkulam | West | 10°26′44.1"N | 76°23′38.7"E
13. | Muttalakappukadu | West | 10°27′15.2"N | 76°23′51.2"E
14. | Nadampadam | West | 10°27′21.0″N | 76°22′11.8″E
21 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure IV
LIST OF VILLAGES COMING UNDER ECO-SENSITIVE ZONE OF CHIMMONY
WILDLIFE SANCTUARY ALONG WITH GEO-COORDINATES
GPS Co-ordinates
Sl. No. | Village Name | Type of | Taluka | District | Latitude | Longitude
| | Village | | |
1. | Varantharapilly | Revenue | Chalakkudy | Thrissur | 10°26′18.38″N | 76°26′51.13″E
2. | Kizhakkanchery | Revenue | Alathur | Palakkad | 10°27′54.86"N | 76°31′38.75"E
3. | Mattathur | Revenue | Chalakkudy | Thrissur | 10°21′54.08″N | 76°29′34.24″E
4. | Vellikulangara | Revenue | Chalakkudy | Thrissur | 10°22′11.03″N | 76°26′40.05"E
22 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure V
Proforma of Action Taken Report- Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary Eco-sensitive Zone
Monitoring Committee:-
1. Number and date of meetings.
2. Minutes of the meetings: (mention main noteworthy points. Attach minutes of the meeting
as separate Annexure).
3. Status of preparation of Zonal Master Plan including Tourism Master Plan.
4. Summary of cases dealt with rectification of error apparent on face of land record
(Eco-sensitive Zone wise). Details may be attached as Annexure.
5. Summary of cases scrutinized for activities covered under the Environment Impact
Assessment Notification, 2006 (Details may be attached as separate Annexure).
6. Summary of cases scrutinized for activities not covered under the Environment Impact
Assessment Notification, 2006 (Details may be attached as separate Annexure).
7. Summary of complaints lodged under section 19 of the Environment (Protection)
Act, 1986.
8. Any other matter of importance.
Uploaded by Dte. of Printing at Government of India Press, Ring Road, Mayapuri, New Delhi-110064
and Published by the Controller of Publications, Delhi-110054. SARVESH KUMAR
SRIVASTAVA
23 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE
NOTIFICATION
New Delhi, the 26th May, 2026
S.O. 2654(E).— The following draft notification, which the Central Government proposes to issue
in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1), read with clause (v) and clause (xiv) of sub-section
(2) and sub-section (3) of section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (29 of 1986) is hereby
published, as required under sub-rule (3) of rule 5 of the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, for the
information of the public likely to be affected thereby; and notice is hereby given that the said draft
notification shall be taken into consideration on or after the expiry of a period of sixty days from the date
on which copies of the Gazette containing this notification are made available to the public;
Any person interested in making any objections or suggestions on the proposals contained in the draft
notification may forward the same in writing, for consideration of the Central Government within the
period so specified to the Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Indira
24 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Paryavaran Bhawan, Jorbagh Road, Aliganj, New Delhi-110 003, or send it to the e-mail address of the
Ministry at [email protected]
Draft Notification
WHEREAS, the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Chalakkudy taluk (formerly
known as Mukundapuram taluk) of Thrissur district in the State of Kerala. It is spread over an area of
114.60 sq. km and lies between 10°29'5.9892" N to 10°22'5.7072" N latitudes and 76°24'56.754" E to
76°33'38.6424" E longitudes.
AND WHEREAS, the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary was formed from Kodassery Reserve in
Palappilly range of Chalakudy Forest Division vide G.O. (P) No. 259/84/AD, dated 25.08.1984. The
sanctuary is an abode to 53 species of mammals, 182 species of birds, 46 species of reptiles, 38 species of
amphibians, 31 species of fishes and invertebrate species such as butterflies (24 species), odonates (56
species) etc.
AND WHEREAS, the major flora found in and around Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Pali
(Palaquium ellipticum), Nangue (Mesua ferrea), Vediplavu (Cullenia exarillata), Kalpine (Dipterocarpus
indicus), Kambakam (Hopea parviflora), Vellakil (Dysoxylum malabaricum), Vetti (Aporosa lindleyana),
Thelly (Canarium strictum), Nasakam (Melicope lunu-ankenda), Kurangumanjal (Mallotus philippensis),
Manjakadambu (Haldina cordifolia), Elavu (Bombax ceiba), Vembu (Toona ciliate), Njaval (Syzygium
cumini), Vellilavu (Lagerstroemia microcarpa), Karuva (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), Nasakam (Melicope
lunuankenda), Chenkolli (Mallotus philippensis), Maruthu (Terminalia paniculate), Karimaruthu
(Terminalia tomentosa), Thanni (Terminalia bellirica), Chalavaka (Albizia procera), Pala (Alstonia
scholaris), Veeti (Dalbergia latifolia), Vellilavu (Lagerstroemia microcarpa), Irul (Xylia xylocarpa), Kaini
(Bridelia retusa), Pezhu (Careya arborea), Kannikonna (Cassia fistula), Punna (Dillenia pentagyna), and
Bamboo (Bambusa arundinacea).
AND WHEREAS, the major fauna found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Tiger
(Panthera tigris), Leopard (Panthera pardus), Wild dog (Cuon alpinus), Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus),
Elephant (Elephas maximus), Sambar Deer (Rusa unicolor), Spotted Deer (Axis axis), Barking Deer
(Muntiacus muntjac), Mouse Deer (Moschiola indica), Bonnet macaque (Macaca radiate), Malabar Giant
Squirrel (Ratufa indica), Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus), Jungle Cat (Felis chaus), Asian Palm
Civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus), Small Indian Civet (Viverricula indica), Golden Jackal (Canis
aureus), and Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), among many others.
AND WHEREAS, the major avifauna found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Little
Cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger), Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis), Little Green Heron (Bulorides striatus),
Oriental Honey-Buzzard (Pernis ptilorhynchus), Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus), Black Eagle (Ictinaetus
malaiensis), Grey Junglefowl (Gallus sonneratii), River Tern (Sterna aurantia), Emerald Dove
(Chalcophaps indica), Spotted Dove (Spilopelia chinensis), Mountain imperial pigeon (Ducula badia),
Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri), Pied Crested Cuckoo (Clamator jacobinus), Large Hawk-
Cuckoo (Hierococcyx sparverioides), Indian Cuckoo (Cuculus micropterus), Asian Koel (Eudynamys
scolopaceus), Brown Hawk-Owl (Ninox scutulata), Alpine Swift (Tachymarptis melba), Small Blue
Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), Lesser Pied Kingfisher (Cervyle rudis), Crimson-throated Barbet (Megalaima
rubricapillus), Rufuos Woodpecker (Celeus brachyurus), Common Golden- backed Woodpecker
(Dinopium javanense), Dusky Crag-Martin (Hirundo concolor), Yellow Wagtail (Molacilla flava), Scarlet
Minivet (Pericrocotus flammeus), Black-crested Bulbul (Pycnonotus flaviventris), Asian Fairy-Bluebird
(Irena puella), Oriental Magpie-Robin (Copsychus saularis) Jungle Babbler (Turdoides striata), Greenish
25 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Leaf-Warbler (Phylloscopus trochiloides), Rusty-tailed Flycatcher (Muscicapa ruficauda), Red-throated
Flycatcher (Ficedula parva), Great Tit (Parus major), Indian Treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda), and Jungle
Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos), among many others.
AND WHEREAS, the major reptiles found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Indian
Black Turtle (Melanochelys trijuga), Travancore Tortoise (Indotestudo travancorica), Common Green
Forest Lizard (Calotes calotes), South Indian Rock Agama (Psammophilus dorsalis), Kollegal Ground
Gecko (Cyrtodactylus collegalensis), Common Keeled Skink (Eutropis carinata), Spotted Supple Skink
(Lygosonia punctata), Beddome's Cat Skink (Ristella beddomii), Brahminy Worm Snake (Indotyphlops
braminus), Indian Rock python (Python molurus), Common Trinket Snake (Coelognathus helena),
Common Kukri Snake (Oligodon arnensis), Common Wolf Snake (Lycodon aulicus), Common Indian
Krait (Bungarus caeruleus), Russel's Viper (Daboia russelii), Malabar Pit Viper (Trimeresurus
malabaricus), Checkered Keelback (Fowlea piscator), and Common Hump-nosed Pit Viper (Hypnale
hypnale).
AND WHEREAS, the major amphibians found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include
Common Indian Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus), Skittering Frog (Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis), Indian
Bullfrog (Hoplobatrachus tigerinus), Indian Burrowing Frog (Sphaerotheca breviceps), Ornate Narrow-
mouthed Frog (Microhyla ornata), Purple Frog (Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis), Fungoid Frog
(Hydrophylax malabarica), Anamallais Leaping frog (Indirana brachytarsus), Common Indian Tree Frog
(Polypedates maculatus), Water Drop Frog (Raorchestes nerostagona), Malabar Gliding Frog
(Rhacophorus malaharicus), Variable Bush Frog (Raorchestes akroparallagi), Bicoloured Frog
(Clinotarsus curtipes), and Darrel's Chorus Frog (Microhyla darreli), among many others.
AND WHEREAS, the major fishes found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Common
Carp (Cyprinus caprio communis), Scarlet banded (Puntis amphibious), Giant danio (Danio
aequipinnatus), Guenther's loach (Nemacheilus guentheri), Triangular banded (Nemacheilus triangularis),
Denson's loach (Nemacheilus denisoni), Malabar loach (Lepidocephalus thermalis), Striped dwarf catfish
(Mystus vittalus), Indian butter catfish (Ompok bimaculatus Bloch), Stinging catfish (Heteropnuestès
fossilitus Bloch), and Fresh water garfish (Xenentodon cancila Ham.), among many others.
AND WHEREAS, the major butterflies found in the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary include Plain
Cupid (Luthrodes pandava), Angled Pierrot (Caleta decidia), Common Cerulian (Jamides celeno),
Common hedge blue (Acytolepis puspa), Common Bluebottle (Graphium sarpedon), Crimson rose
(Atrophaneura hector), Common Emigrant (Catopsilia pomona), Chestnut streaked Sailer (Neptis jumbah),
Blue Tiger (Tirumala limniace), Slate Flash (Rapala manea), Chestnut Angle (Odontoptilum angulata),
Red Helen (Papilio helenus), Mottled Emigrant (Catopsilia pyranthe), and Chocolate Pansy (Junonia
iphita), among several others.
AND WHEREAS, the forests of the sanctuary embracing the Chimmony Reservoir attains greatest
conservation value by providing irrigation water to thousands of hectares of agricultural land in Thrissur
District and hence the prime reason for protecting and developing the sanctuary for posterity.
AND WHEREAS, the sanctuary area mainly comprises of forests in the Chimmony valley on the
western slopes of the Nelliampathies, which ensures ecological continuity of the Anamalai-Anamudi
conservation unit, covering an area of 4705 sq. km. The sanctuary is part of the Anamudi Elephant Reserve
in the State, with a total forest area of 3728 sq. km. with a density of 0.20 elephants/sq.km. The sanctuary is
a representative example of the southern Western Ghats with scenic splendour. The Sanctuary has high
potential for scientific research and conservation education.
AND WHEREAS, it is necessary to conserve and protect the area, surrounding the boundaries of
Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary which are specified in paragraph 1 as Eco-sensitive Zone from ecological,
26 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
environmental and biodiversity point of view and to prohibit industries or class of industries and their
operations and processes in the said Eco-sensitive Zone;
NOW THEREFORE, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) and clauses (v) and
(xiv) of sub-section (2) and sub-section (3) of section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (Act 29
of 1986) (hereafter in this notification referred to as the Environment Act) read with sub-rule (3) of rule 5
of the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, the Central Government hereby notifies an area to an extent
varying of 0 (zero) to 7.5 km around the boundary of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary in the State of Kerala
as Eco-sensitive Zone (hereafter in this notification referred to as the Eco-sensitive Zone) details of which
are as under, namely:-
1. Extent and boundaries of Eco-Sensitive Zone-
(1) The Eco-sensitive Zone shall be to an extent of 0 (zero) to 7.5 km around the boundary of Chimmony
Wildlife Sanctuary and the area of the Eco-sensitive zone is 102.73 sq. km. The extent of Eco-sensitive
Zone at various directions is given below:
Direction | From the Boundary of the Protected Area (in km)
North | 0
East | 0.2
South East | 0
South | 2.08 - 7.07
South West | 0.5
West | 1.94 - 7.5
Justification for 0 (zero) ESZ: Towards north direction, ESZ is kept zero due to sharing of boundary with
Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary. In the south-eastern direction, ESZ is kept zero due to sharing of
boundary with Parambikulam Tiger Reserve.
(2) The boundary description of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary and its Eco-sensitive zone is appended as
Annexure-IA and Annexure-IB.
(3) The maps of Eco-sensitive zone of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary are appended as Annexure-IIA,
Annexure-IIB and Annexure-IIC.
(4) List of geo-coordinates of the boundary of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary and Eco-Sensitive Zone is
appended as Annexure-IIIA & Annexure-IIIB.
(5) The list of villages falling in the proposed eco-sensitive zone is given in Annexure-IV.
2. Zonal Master Plan for the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary Eco-Sensitive Zone.
(1) The State Government shall, for the purposes of the Eco-sensitive Zone prepare a Zonal Master Plan
within a period of two years from the date of publication of this notification in the Official Gazette, in
consultation with local people and adhering to the stipulations given in this notification for approval of
the competent authority in the State Government.
(2) The Zonal Master Plan for the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be prepared by the State Government in such
manner as is specified in this notification and also in consonance with the relevant Central and State
laws and the guidelines issued by the Central Government, if any.
27 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
(3) The Zonal Master Plan shall be prepared in consultation with the following Departments of the State
Government, for integrating the ecological and environmental considerations into the said plan:-
(i) Environment;
(ii) Forest;
(iii) Urban Development;
(iv) Tourism;
(v) Municipal;
(vi) Revenue;
vii) Irrigation;
viii) Local Self Government Department;
ix) Public Works Department;
x) State Pollution Control Board.
(4) The Zonal Master Plan shall not impose any restriction on the approved existing land use,
infrastructure and activities, unless so specified in this notification and the Zonal Master Plan shall
factor in improvement of all infrastructure and activities to be more efficient and eco-friendly.
(5) The Zonal Master Plan shall provide for restoration of denuded areas, conservation of existing water
bodies, management of catchment areas, watershed management, groundwater management, soil and
moisture conservation, needs of local community and such other aspects of the ecology and
environment that need attention.
(6) The Zonal Master Plan shall demarcate all the existing worshipping places, village and urban
settlements, types and kinds of forests, agricultural areas, fertile lands, green area, such as, parks and
like places, horticultural areas, orchards, lakes and other water bodies.
(7) The Zonal Master Plan shall regulate development in Eco-sensitive Zone and adhere to prohibited and
regulated activities listed in the Table in paragraph 4 and also ensure and promote eco-friendly
development for livelihood security of the local communities
(8) The Zonal Master Plan shall be co-terminus with the Regional Development Plan.
(9) The Zonal Master Plan so approved shall be the reference document for the Monitoring Committee
for carrying out its functions of monitoring in accordance with the provisions of this notification.
3. Measures to be taken by the State Government. - The State Government shall take the following
measures for giving effect to the provisions of this notification, namely:
(1) Land use. - (a) Forests, horticulture areas, agricultural areas, parks and open spaces earmarked for
recreational purpose in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall not be used or converted into areas for major
commercial or major residential complex or industrial activities.
28 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Provided that the conversion of agriculture and other land within the ESZ for the purpose other than that
specified at part (a) above, within the Eco-sensitive Zone may be permitted on the recommendation of the
Monitoring committee and with the prior approval of the competent authority under Regional Town
Planning Act and other rules and regulations of Central/State Government as applicable and vide provisions
of this notification, to meet the residential needs of the local residents such as:
(i) Widening and strengthening of the existing roads and construction of new roads;
(ii) Construction and renovation of infrastructure and civic amenities;
(iii) Small scale industries not causing pollution
(iv) Cottage industries including village industries; convenience stores and local amenities
supporting ecotourism including home stay; and
(v) Promoted activities and given under para 4
Provided further that no use of tribal land shall be permitted for commercial and industrial development
activities without the prior approval of the competent authority under Regional Town Planning Act and
other rules and regulations of State Government and without compliance of the provision of the article 224
of the Constitution or the law for the time being in force, including the Scheduled Tribes and Other
Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 ( 2 of 2007):
Provided also that any error appearing in the land records with in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be
corrected by the State Government, after obtaining the views of the Monitoring Committee, once in each
case and the correction of said errors shall be intimated to the Central Government in the Ministry of
Environment, Forest and Climate Change:
Provided also that above correction of error shall not include change of land use in any case except as
provided under this sub-paragraph;
(b) Efforts shall be made to reforest the unused or unproductive agriculture areas with afforestation and
habitat restoration activities.
(2) Natural water bodies. - The catchment areas of all-natural springs/rivers/channels shall be
identified and plans for their conservation and rejuvenation shall be incorporated in the zonal
master plan.
(3) Tourism or Eco-Tourism. - (a) All new eco-tourism activities or expansion of existing tourism
activities within the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be as per the Tourism Master Plan for the eco
sensitive zone;
29 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
(b) The Tourism Master Plan shall be prepared by the State Department of Tourism in consultation
with the State Departments of Environment, Forests and Wildlife, in association with State
Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala;
(c) the Tourism Master Plan shall form a component of the Zonal Master Plan;
(d) the Tourism Master Plan shall be drawn based on the study of carrying capacity of the Eco-
sensitive Zone;
(e) the activities of eco-tourism shall be regulated as under, namely:-
i. No new construction of hotels and resorts shall be allowed within 1 km from the boundary
of the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary or up to the extent of the Eco-Sensitive Zone
whichever is nearer:
Provided that beyond the distance of the 1 km from the boundaries of the protected area till the
extent of the Eco-Sensitive Zone, the establishment of new hotels and resorts shall be allowed
only in predefined and designated areas for eco-tourism facilities as per Tourism Master Plan;
ii. all new tourism activities or expansion of existing tourism activities within the Eco-Sensitive
Zone shall be in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Central Government in the
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Eco-tourism guidelines issued
by National Tiger Conservation Authority (as amended from time to time) with emphasis on
eco-tourism.
iii. until the zonal master plan is approved, development for tourism and expansion of existing
tourism activities in the Eco-Sensitive Zone areas falling outside forest lands shall be
permitted by the concerned regulatory authorities based on the actual site-specific scrutiny
and recommendation of the monitoring committee and no new hotels/ resorts or commercial
establishment construction is permitted within Eco-Sensitive Zone Area.
(4) Natural Heritage.- All sites of valuable natural heritage in the Eco-Sensitive Zone, such as the
gene pool reserve areas, rock formations waterfalls, springs, gorges, groves, caves, points, walks
rides, cliffs, etc. shall be identified and preserved and a heritage conservation plan shall be drawn
up for their preservation and conservation as a part of the Zonal Master plan.
(5) Man-made Heritage sites.- Buildings, structures, artefacts, areas and precincts of historical,
architectural, aesthetic, and cultural significance shall be identified in the Eco-Sensitive Zone and
heritage conservation plan for their conservation shall be prepared as part Zonal Master plan.
(6) Noise pollution. - Prevention and control of noise pollution in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be
complied with in accordance with Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 under the
Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and amendments thereto.
30 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
(7) Air Pollution. - Prevention and control of air pollution in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be complied
with in accordance with the provisions of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
(14 of 1981) and rules made there under and amendments thereto.
(8) Discharge of effluents. - Discharge of treated effluents in Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be in
accordance with the provisions of the General Standards for Discharge of Environmental Pollutants
covered under the Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986 and rules made there under or standards
stipulated by State Government whichever is more stringent.
(9) Solid wastes. - Disposal and Management of solid wastes shall be as under:-
a. the solid waste disposal and management in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be carried out in
accordance with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 and published by the Government of
India in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change vide notification number S.O.
1357(E), dated the 8th April, 2016 and as amended from time to time; the inorganic material may be
disposed in an environmental acceptable manner at site identified outside the Eco-Sensitive Zone;
b. Safe and Environmentally Sound Management (ESM) of solid wastes in conformity with the
existing rules and regulations using identified technologies may be allowed within the Eco-
Sensitive Zone.
(10) Bio-Medical Waste.- Bio medical waste management shall be as under:-
a. The bio-medical waste disposal in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be carried out in accordance
with the Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016 published by the Government of India
in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change vide Notification number GSR
343(E), dated the 28th March, 2016, as amended from time to time.
b. Safe and Environmentally Sound Management (ESM) of Bio-medical wastes in conformity
with the existing rules and regulations using identified technologies may be allowed within
Eco-Sensitive Zone.
(11) Plastic Waste Management.- The Plastic Waste Management in the Eco-Sensitive Zone
shall be carried out as per the provisions of the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 published
by the Government of India in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change vide
notification number G.S.R. 340(E), dated the 18th March, 2016, as amended from time to time.
(12) Construction and Demolition Waste Management. - The Construction and Demolition
Waste Management in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be carried out as per the provisions of the
Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2016 published by the Government of
India in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change vide notification number G.S.R
317(E), dated the 29th March, 2016 as amended from time to time.
(13) E-Waste. - The E-Waste Management in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be carried out as per
the provisions of the E-Waste Management Rules, 2016 published by the Government of India in
the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and as amended from time to time.
31 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
(14) Vehicular Traffic. - The vehicular movement of traffic shall be regulated in a habitat
friendly manner and specific provisions in the regard shall be incorporated in the Zonal Master
Plan and till such time as the Zonal Master plan is prepared and approved by the Competent
Authority in the State Government, the Monitoring Committee shall monitor compliance of
vehicular movement under the relevant Acts and the rules and regulations made there under.
(15) Vehicular pollution. - Prevention and control of Vehicular Pollution shall be complied
with in accordance with applicable laws. Efforts to be made for use of cleaner fuel like CNG, LPG,
etc.
(16) Industrial units.-
a. On or after the publication of this notification in the Official Gazette, no new polluting
industries shall be allowed to be set up within the Eco-Sensitive Zone.
b. Only non-polluting industries shall be allowed within Eco-Sensitive Zone as per Classification
of Industries in the guidelines issued by Central Pollution Control Board in February 2016, as
amended from time to time, unless so specified in this notification. In addition, non-polluting
cottage industries shall be promoted.
(17) Protection of hill slopes.- The protection of hill slopes shall be as under:-
a. the Zonal Master Plan shall indicate areas on hill slopes where no construction shall be
permitted;
b. no construction on existing steep hill slopes or slopes with higher degree of erosion shall be
permitted.
4. List of Activities Prohibited or to be regulated within Eco-Sensitive Zone.-
All activities in the Eco-Sensitive Zone of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary shall be governed by the
provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (29 of 1986), Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
(53 of 1972), Forest Act, 1927 (16 of 1927), Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 (69 of 1980) and other
applicable laws including the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ), 2011, Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, and amendments made thereto and other Acts prevalent in the
State. The forest area coming under the Eco-sensitive Zone will remain to be governed under existing
forest laws and amendments made thereto. Subject to the provisions of this paragraph, the activities in
the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be regulated in manner specified in the Table below, namely:-
Table
Sl. No. | Activity | Description
A. Prohibited Activities
1. | Commercial Mining | a) All new and existing (minor and major minerals), stone
| | quarrying and crushing units shall be prohibited with
| | immediate effect except for meeting the domestic needs
| | of bona fide local residents including digging of earth for
32 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
| | construction or repair of houses within Eco-sensitive
| | Zone;
| | b) The mining operations shall be carried out in accordance
| | with the order(s) of the Hon'ble Supreme Court dated
| | dated the 4th August, 2006 in the matter of T.N.
| | Godavarman Thirumulpad Vs. UOI in W.P.(C) No.202
| | of 1995; dated the 21st April, 2014 in the matter of Goa
| | Foundation Vs. UOI in W.P.(C) No.435 of 2012; and IA
| | No. 1000 of 2003 dated the 03rd June, 2022. IA No.
| | 131377 of 2022, judgment dated the 26th April, 2023 and
| | the 28th April, 2023 and subsequent judgment dated the
| | 23rd July 2025 in I.A Nos. 162023, 162034, 162154 and
| | 162155 of 2025 or any further orders regarding mining.
2 | Setting of industries causing | No new industries and expansion of existing polluting industries
| pollution (Water, Air, Soil, | in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be permitted. Only non-polluting
| noise, etc.,) | industries shall be allowed within Eco-Sensitive Zone as per
| | Classification of Industries in the guidelines issued by Central
| | Pollution Control Board in February 2016 and as amended from
| | time to time, unless so specified in this notification. In addition,
| | non-polluting cottage industries shall be promoted.
3 | Establishment of major | Prohibited as per applicable laws.
| hydroelectric project |
4 | Use, production, or | Prohibited as per applicable laws.
| processing of any hazardous |
| substances. |
5 | Discharge of untreated | Prohibited as per applicable laws.
| effluents in natural water |
| bodies or land area. |
6. | Establishment of solid waste | No new solid waste disposal site and waste treatment/processing
| disposal site and common | facility of solid waste are permitted within Eco-sensitive Zone.
| incineration facility for solid | Further, installation of common or individual incineration facility
| and bio medical waste | for treatment of any form of solid waste generated from industrial
| | process and health establishment/hospitals etc. is prohibited.
7. | Setting of saw mills. | No new or expansion of existing saw mills shall be permitted
| | within the Eco-sensitive Zones.
8. | Setting up of brick kilns | Prohibited as applicable laws.
9. | Commercial use of firewood. | Prohibited as applicable laws.
10. | Undertaking activities | Prohibited as applicable laws.
| related to tourism like over- |
| flying the National Park area |
| by any aircraft, hot-air |
| balloons. |
| | B. Regulated Activities
9. | Commercial establishment | No new commercial hotels and resorts shall be permitted within
| of hotels and resorts | one kilometre from the boundaries of the Protected Area or up to
| | the extent of Eco-Sensitive Zone, whichever is nearer, except for
| | accommodation for temporary occupation of tourists related to
33 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
| | Eco-friendly tourism activities:
| | Provided that new tourist activities or extension of existing
| | establishments may be allowed in accordance with Tourism
| | Master Plan and guidelines as applicable.
| | However, beyond one kilometre from the boundary of the
| | protected areas up to the extent of the Eco-sensitive Zones
| | establishment of hotels and resorts may be done subject to the
| | Zonal Master Plan.
10. | Construction Activities | a) No new commercial construction of any kind shall be
| | permitted within one kilometre from the boundaries of
| | the protected areas or up to the extent of Eco-sensitive
| | Zone or whichever is nearer:
| | Provided that, local people shall be permitted to undertake
| | construction in their land for their residential use including the
| | activities listed in sub-paragraph (1) of paragraph 3 as per
| | building bye-laws to meet the residential needs of the local
| | residence such as:
| | i. Widening and strengthening of existing
| | roads and construction of new roads;
| | ii. Construction and renovation of
| | infrastructure and civic amenities;
| | iii. Small scale industries not causing
| | pollution;
| | iv. Cottage industries including village
| | artisans; convenience stores and local
| | amenities supporting eco-tourism; and
| | v. Promoted activities listed in this
| | notification.
| | Provided that the construction activity related to small scale
| | industries not causing pollution shall be regulated at the
| | minimum, with the prior permission from the Competent
| | Authority as per applicable rules and regulations, if any.
| | vi. Beyond one kilometre, it shall be regulated as per the Zonal
| | Master Plan.
11. | Small scale Non-polluting | Non-polluting industries as per classification of Industries issued
| industries | by the Central Pollution Control Board in February 2016 and as
| | amended from time to time and non-hazards, small-scale and
| | service industry, agriculture, floriculture, horticulture or agro-
| | based industry producing products from indigenous materials
| | from the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be permitted by the Competent
| | Authority.
12. | Felling of Trees | (a) There shall be no felling of trees on the forest or
| | Government or revenue or private lands without prior
| | permission of the Competent Authority in the State
| | Government.
| | (b) The felling of trees shall be regulated in accordance with
| | the provisions of the concerned Central or State Act and
| | the rules made there under.
34 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
13. | Collection of Forest produce | Regulated as per the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional
| or Non-Timber Forest | Forest Dwellers [Recognition of Forest Rights] Act, 2006.
| Produce (NTFP) |
14. | Erection of electrical cables | Regulated under applicable laws. Promote underground cabling
| and communication towers. | method.
15. | Infrastructure including civic | Shall be done with mitigation measures, as per applicable laws,
| amenities | rules and regulation and available guidelines.
16. | Widening and strengthening | Shall be done with mitigation measures, as per applicable laws,
| of existing roads and | rules and regulation and available guidelines.
| construction of new roads. |
17. | Protection of Hill slopes and | Regulated under applicable laws.
| river banks. |
18. | Movement of vehicular | Regulated for commercial purpose under applicable laws.
| traffic at night. |
19. | Ongoing agriculture and | Permitted under applicable laws for use of locals.
| horticulture practices by |
| local communities along |
| with diaries, dairy farming, |
| aquaculture and fisheries. |
20. | Establishment of large scale | Regulated as per applicable laws.
| commercial livestock and |
| poultry farms by firms, |
| corporate, companies. |
21. | Discharge of untreated waste | The discharge of waste water/effluents shall be avoided to enter
| water/effluents in natural | into the water bodies. Efforts to be made for recycle and reuse of
| water bodies or land area. | treated waste water. Otherwise the discharge of treated waste
| | water/effluent shall be regulated as per applicable laws.
22. | Commercial extraction of | Regulated under applicable law.
| surface and ground water. |
23. | Open well, Bore well etc. for | Regulated and the activity should be strictly monitored by the
| agriculture or other usage. | appropriate authority.
24. | Solid Waste Management | Regulated under applicable law.
25. | Introduction of Exotic | Regulated under applicable law.
| species. |
26. | Eco-tourism | Regulated under applicable law.
27. | Use of polythene bags | Use of polythene bags are permitted within the Eco Sensitive
| | Zone. However, based on specific requirement, it shall be
| | regulated under applicable laws.
28. | Commercial Sign boards and | Regulated under applicable law.
| hoardings. |
| | C. Promoted Activities
29. | Rain water harvesting | Shall be actively promoted.
30. | Organic farming | Shall be actively promoted.
31. | Adoption of green | Shall be actively promoted.
| technology for all activities. |
32. | Cottage industries including | Shall be actively promoted.
| village artisans, etc. |
33. | Use of renewable energy and | Shall be actively promoted.
35 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
fuels
34. | Agro - Forestry | Shall be actively promoted.
35. | Plantation of horticulture and | Shall be actively promoted.
| herbals |
36. | Use of eco-friendly transport | Shall be actively promoted.
37. | Skill Development | Shall be actively promoted.
38. | Restoration of Degraded | Shall be actively promoted.
| Land/Forests/Habitat |
39. | Environmental Awareness | Shall be actively promoted.
5. Monitoring Committee for Monitoring the Eco-Sensitive Zone Notification-
In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (3) of section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act,
1986 (29 of 1986), the Central Government hereby constitutes a Committee to be called as the Monitoring
Committee, to monitor and ensure the compliance with the provisions of this notification. The Monitoring
Committee referred to in sub-paragraph (1) above, shall consist of the following members, namely:-
Sl. No. | Constituent of the Monitoring Committee | Designation
(i) | The District Collector, Thrissur, Palakkad | Chairman;
(ii) | The District Panchayat President, Thrissur | Member;
(iii) | Representatives of Kerala State Pollution Control | Members;
| Board/Kerala State Electricity Board/Kerala Water |
| Authority/Kerala State Irrigation Department / Kerala |
| State Environment Department |
(iv) | Representative of Non-Governmental Organization | Member;
| working in the field of natural conservation (including |
| heritage conservation) to be nominated by the |
| Government of Kerala |
(v) | One expert in Ecology from reputed Institution or | Member;
| University of the State of Kerala to be nominated by the |
| Government of Kerala |
(vi) | The Wildlife Warden, Peechi Wildlife Division | Member Secretary.
6. Terms of Reference of the Monitoring Committee -
(1)The Monitoring Committee shall monitor the compliance of the provisions of this notification.
(2) The tenure of the Monitoring committee is for three (3) years or till the re constitution of the new
Committee by the State Government and subsequently the Monitoring Committee would be constituted by
the State Government.
(3) The activities that are covered in the schedule to the notification of the Government of India in the
erstwhile Ministry of Environment and Forests number S.O. 1533(E), dated the 14th September 2006, and
are falling in Eco-sensitive Zone, except for the prohibited activities as specified in the table under
paragraph 4 thereof, shall be scrutinized by the Monitoring Committee based on the actual site-specific
conditions and referred to the Central Government in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change for prior environmental clearances under the provisions of the said notification.
(4) The activities that are not covered in the Schedule to the notification of the Government of India in the
erstwhile Ministry of Environment and Forests number S.O. 1533(E), dated the 14th September, 2006 and
are falling in Eco-sensitive Zone, except for the prohibited activities as specified in the table under
36 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
paragraph 4 thereof, shall be scrutinized by the Monitoring Committee based on the actual site-specific
conditions and referred to the concerned regulatory authority.
(5) The Member Secretary of Monitoring Committee shall be competent to file complaints under section 19
of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 against any person who contravenes the provisions of this
notification.
(6) The Monitoring Committee may invite representatives or experts from concerned Departments or
representative from Industry Associations or concerned stakeholders to assist in its deliberations depending
on the requirements on issue to issue basis.
(7) The Monitoring Committee shall submit the annual action taken report of its activities as on 31st March
of every year by 30th June of that year to the Chief Wildlife Warden in the state as per pro-forma given
Annexure-V, appended to this notification.
(8) The Central Government in the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change may give such
direction, as it deems fit, to the Monitoring Committee for effective discharge of its functions.
7. Additional measures. - The Central Government and State government may specify additional
measures, if any, for giving effect to the provision of this notification.
8. Supreme Court, etc. orders. - The provision of this notification shall be subject to the orders, if
any, passed or to be passed, by the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India or the High Court or National
Green Tribunal.
[F. No. 25/96/2015-ESZ-RE]
Dr. S. KERKETTA, Scientist 'G'
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