Full Text
REGD. No. D. L.-33004/99
The Gazette of India
CG-DL-E-09032026-270768
EXTRAORDINARY
PART II-Section 3-Sub-section (ii)
PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY
No. 1108]
NEW DELHI, THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2026/PHALGUNA 14, 1947
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE
NOTIFICATION
New Delhi, the 5th March, 2026
S.O. 1160 (E).- WHEREAS, a draft notification was published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II,
Section 3,sub-section (ii) notification of the Government of the India in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change vide number S.O. 1993(E), dated 2nd may, 2025, inviting objections and suggestions from all persons likely to
be affected thereby within the period of sixty days from date on which copies of the Gazette containing the said
notification were made available to the public;
AND WHEREAS, copies of the Gazette containing the said draft notification were made available to the
public on the dated 2nd may, 2025;
AND WHEREAS, objections and suggestions received from persons and stakeholders in response to the draft
notification were duly considered by the Central Government;
AND WHEREAS, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, spread over an area of 0.0274 square kilometres, is
located in Ernakulam Village of Kanayannoor Taluk of Ernakulam district in the State of Kerala and the Sanctuary was
notified as Bird sanctuary as per G. O. (MS) No. 42/04/F & WLD dated 31st August, 2004 under section 18 of the
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972;
AND WHEREAS, This Sanctuary falls under West Coast (SA) biographic zone and the true mangrove and
mangrove associate species that exist in the area are Avicenia officinalis, Rhizophora mucronata, Acanthus ilicifolius
and Acrostichum aureum and there are more than thirty floral species, which also includes threatened species as per
International Union for Conservation of Nature in the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary. The other major flora available
in the Sanctuary are: Alternanthera sp, Azadirachta indica, Bruguiera parviflora, Caryota urens, Ceiba pentandra,
Coccinia grandis, Cuscuta reflexa, Derris trifoliate, Enterolobium saman, Eucalyptus sp, Ficus gibbosa, Hibiscus
(1)
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tiliaceus, Hydnocarpus alpine, Hygrophila sp, Morinda tinctoria, Polyalthia longifolia, Pongamia pinnata, Tectona
grandis, Terminalia catappa, Tinospora cordifolia, etc.;
AND WHEREAS, This Sanctuary is also known as the "green lung of Kochi" its existence supporting a good
number of avifauna, bats, other animals and other floral species including mangroves amidst a busy city like Ernakulam
is very vital and the important avifaunal species found in the Sanctuary are as follows: large cormorant (Phalacrocorax
carbo), little cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger), darter (Anhinga rufa), grey heron (Ardea cinerea), purple heron (Ardea
purpurea), cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis), large egret (Ardea alba), smaller median egret (Egretta intermedia), little egret
(Egretta zetta), lesser whistling teal (Dendrocygna javanica), black winged kite (Elanus caeruleus), pariah kite (Milvus
migrans), Indian shikra (Accipiter badius), crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela), redwattled lapwing (Vanellus
indicus), marsh sandpiper (Tringa stagnatilis), wood sandpiper (Tringa glareola), blue rock pigeon (Columba livia),
spotted dove (Streptopelia chinensis), whitebreasted kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis), golden oriole (Oriolus oriolus),
black drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus), purple sunbird (Nectarinia asiatica), house sparrow (Passer domesticus), small
green barbet (Megalaima viridis), crimson breasted barbet (Megalaima haemacephala), black rumped flameback
(Dinopium benghalense), ashy crowned finch lark (Eremopterix grisea), sky lark (Alauda sp.), wire-tailed swallow
(Hirundo smithii), Rufous tree pie (Dendrocitta vagabunda), house crow (Corvus splendens), etc;
AND WHEREAS, the mangroves with a unique combination of specialised plants and animals are known for
their ecological functions and they play an important role in stabilizing the land along the coast and backwaters. These
specialised ecosystems accommodate a variety of marine and freshwater organisms as their nursery and feeding grounds.
There is only nine hundred hectare of mangrove areas left within the State and most of the mangrove areas within the
state fall under either private ownership or revenue land and are worst disturbed due to varieties of developmental
activities;
AND WHEREAS, This Bird Sanctuary with a small extent of 2.74 hectare of tidal wetland supports mangrove
vegetation which comprises of five species of mangroves and 25 other floral species and this patch of mangrove forest
used to support an avifauna of 97 species comprising of both migratory and resident birds and it is fascinating to note
that the small area in the midst of busy Ernakulam city is used by species of aquatic avifauna for nesting;
AND WHEREAS, apart from wetland birds, considerable number of migratory avian species visits
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary seasonally and it is a nesting site for other avian colonial nesters and there is a colony
of bats (Indian flying fox) consisting of approximately 1000 number of bats and there are no Rare, Endangered, Endemic
or Threatened species in Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary except Lutra lutra (Eurasian otter), which is in Near Threatened
category as per International Union for Conservation of Nature but there are no signtings of this mammal from last
decade;
AND WHEREAS, it is necessary to conserve and protect the area, the extent and boundaries of
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary which are specified in paragraph 1 as Eco-sensitive Zone from ecological, 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 (29 of 1986) read with sub-rule
(3) of rule 5 of the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, the Central Government hereby notifies an Eco-Sensitive
Zone around the boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary of Kerala (herein after referred to as the Eco-sensitive
Zone) details of which are as under, namely: -
1. Extent and boundaries of the Eco-Sensitive Zone – (1) The extent of Eco-Sensitive Zone varies from zero
to 0.55 kilometre around the boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary and the area of Eco-Sensitive Zone
is 0.122 square kilometre inclusive of the land belonging to Southern Railway. The Extent of Eco-sensitive
zone in different directions is given below: -
DIRECTION | EXTENT (in km)
| From the centre of Protected Area | From the boundary of Protected Area
North | 0 | 0
South | 0.226 | 0.11
East | 0.263 | 0.16
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West | 0 | 0
North-East | 0.679 | 0.55
North-West | 0 | 0
South-East | 0.271 | 0.215
South-West | 0 | 0
Justification for Eco-sensitive Zone extent of 0 km in different directions of the protected area-
(a) The Eco-sensitive Zone along the northern boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is of zero extent because
it is bordered by land owned by M/s Bharat Petroleum Ltd., where there is insufficient tree cover.
(b) The western boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is bordered by land owned by M/s Central Marine
Fisheries Institute and Dr. Salim Ali Road, where there is insufficient tree cover.
(c) The north-western boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is bordered by land owned by M/s Kerala State
Housing Board, additionally there is insufficient tree cover.
(d) The Eco-Sensitive Zone along the south-western boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is of zero extent
because it is bordered by old buildings, including the Kerala High Court and the Central Marine Fisheries
Research Institute.
(2) The Maps of the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary and its Eco-sensitive Zone is appended as Annexure- I A to I C.
(3) The boundary description of the Eco-Sensitive Zone is appended as Annexure-II.
(4) The geo-coordinates of the prominent locations of Mangalvanam Bird Sanctuary and its Eco-Sensitive Zone
mentioned at Table A and B is appended as Annexure-III.
(5) Eco-sensitive Zone of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary doesnot comprises of any village settlement and the area is
under the administrative control of the Revenue Department (Ernakulam Village) and is under the possession or
ownership of Indian Railways (Southern Railways, Chennai).
2. Zonal Master Plan for Eco-Sensitive Zone. –(1)The State Government shall, for the purposes of the Eco-Sensitive
Zone, prepare a Zonal Master Plan within two years from the date of publication of this notification in the Official
Gazette, in consultation with local people and in conformity to the provisions of this notification.
(2) The Zonal Master Plan for the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be prepared by the State Government in accordance
with the provisions of this notification and also in consonance with the relevant Central and State laws and
the guidelines issued by the Central Government, if any.
(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 and Wildlife;
(iii) Local Self Government Department;
(iv) Agriculture;
(v) Revenue;
(vi) Urban Development;
(vii) Tourism;
(viii) Rural Development;
(ix) Irrigation and Flood Control;
(x) Municipality;
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(xi) Panchayati Raj;
(xii) Public Works Department; and
(xiii) Kerala 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, villages and urban settlements, types
and kinds of forests, agricultural areas, green area, such as, parks and it's like places, horticultural areas, orchards,
lakes and other water bodies with supporting maps giving details of existing and proposed land use features.
(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 security of local
community's livelihood.
(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.
(10) Until the preparation of the Zonal Master Plan for the Eco-sensitive Zone, all new construction and other
developmental activities shall be referred to the Monitoring Committee.
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
purposes in the Eco-sensitive Zone shall not be used or converted into areas for major commercial or major
residential complex or industrial activities:
Provided that the conversion of agricultural and other lands, for the purpose other than that specified at part (a),
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 the
Central/the 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 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 eco-tourism including home stay; and
(v) promoted activities and given under paragraph 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 the State Government and without compliance of the provisions of article 244 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 within the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be corrected by the
State Government, after obtaining the views of Monitoring Committee, once in each case and the correction of said
error shall be intimated to the Central Government in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change:
Provided also that the 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 agricultural areas with afforestation and habitat
restoration activities.
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
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(2) Natural water bodies.- The catchment areas of all natural springs shall be identified and plans for their
conservation and rejuvenation shall be incorporated in the Zonal Master Plan and the guidelines shall be drawn up
by the State Government in such a manner as to prohibit development activities at or near these areas which are
detrimental to such areas.
(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;
(b) the Tourism Master Plan shall be prepared by the Department of Tourism in consultation with the Departments
of Environment and Forests of the State Government;
(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. 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 and the eco-tourism guidelines
issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority with emphasis on eco-tourism, eco-education and
eco-development;
ii. until the Zonal Master Plan is prepared and approved, development for tourism and expansion of existing
tourism activities shall be permitted by the regulatory authorities concerned based on the actual site-
specific scrutiny and recommendation of the Monitoring Committee.
(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 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 of the Zonal Master Plan.
(6) Noise pollution.- Prevention and control of noise pollution in the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be complied in
accordance with the provisions of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 and as amended from
time to time.
(7) Air pollution.- Prevention and control of air pollution in the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be complied in accordance
with the provisions of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 (14 of 1981) and as amended from
time to time.
(8) Discharge of effluents.- The discharge of treated effluent in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be in accordance with
the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 (6 of 1974) and as amended from time
to time.
(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. 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 of Solid wastes in conformity with the existing rules and
regulations using identified technologies may be allowed within Eco-sensitive Zone
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(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.
(b) Safe and Environmentally Sound Management 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.
(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.
(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.
(14) Vehicular traffic. – The vehicular movement of traffic shall be regulated in a habitat friendly manner and specific
provisions in this 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 thereunder.
(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 such as Compressed Natural Gas, Liquefied Petroleum
Gas, etc.
(16) Industrial units. – (a) No new polluting industries shall be allowed to be set up within the Eco-sensitive Zone on
or after the publication of this notification in the Official Gazette,
(b) Only non-polluting industries shall be allowed within the Eco-sensitive Zone as per classification of Industries in
the Guidelines issued by Central Pollution Control Board in February 2016, 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) Construction on existing steep hill slopes or slopes with a high degree of erosion shall not be permitted.
4. List of activities prohibited or to be regulated within the Eco-sensitive Zone- All activities in the Eco-sensitive
Zone shall be governed by the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the rules made there under and
other notifications, laws and acts of the Government of India pertaining to environment, forests and wildlife, in the
erstwhile Ministry of Environment and Forest, vide number 1533(E), dated the 14th September, 2006 and laws for the
time being in force in the manner specified in the Table below, namely: -
TABLE
S. No. | Activity | Description
(1) | (2) | (3)
A. Prohibited Activities
1. | Commercial Mining, stone quarrying and crushing units. | (a) All new and existing (minor and major minerals), stone
quarrying and crushing units are prohibited with immediate effect
except for meeting the domestic needs of bona fide local residents
including digging of earth for construction or repair of houses within
Eco-sensitive Zone;
(b) The mining operations shall be carried out in accordance with
the orders of the Hon'ble Supreme Court dated the 4th August, 2006
in the matter of T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad Vs. UOI in W.P.(C)
No. 202 of 1995 and Goa Foundation Vs. UOI in W.P.(C) No. 435
of 2012 dated the 21st April, 2014 and IA No. 1000 of 2003 dated the
3rd June, 2022, IA No. 131377 of 2022 judgment dated the 26th April,
2023 and 28th April, 2023, and subsequent IA Nos. 162033 and
162034 of 2025 with IA Nos. 162154 & 162155 of 2025 order dated
23rd July 2025.
2. | Setting of industries causing pollution (Water, Air, Soil, Noise, etc.). | New industries and expansion of existing polluting industries in the
Eco-sensitive Zone shall not be permitted:
Provided that, non-polluting industries shall be allowed
within Eco-Sensitive Zone as per classification of Industries in the
guidelines issued by the Central Pollution Control Board in February,
2016, unless so specified in this notification and in addition, the non-
polluting cottage industries shall be promoted.
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
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3. | Establishment of major hydroelectric project. | Prohibited.
4. | Use, production, or processing of any hazardous substances. | Prohibited.
5. | Discharge of untreated effluents in natural water bodies or land area. | Prohibited.
6. | Establishment of Solid Waste disposal site and common incineration facility for solid and bio medical waste. | No Solid Waste disposal site and waste treatment or processing
facility of solid waste is permitted within Eco-sensitive zone and
further installation of common or individual incineration facility for
treatment of any form of solid waste generated from industrial
process and health establishment/hospital etc. is prohibited.
7. | Establishment of large-scale commercial livestock and poultry farms by firms, corporate, companies. | Prohibited.
8. | Under taking other activities related to tourism like flying over the protected area and its Eco-sensitive zone area by hot air balloon, helicopter, drones, Microlites, and other aircrafts etc. | Prohibited.
Provided that, the Forest and Wildlife Departments may use drone
for creating awareness on forest, environment and wildlife
conservation by making documentaries for non-commercial purpose.
9. | Setting of new saw mills. | No new or expansion of existing saw mills shall be permitted within
the Eco-sensitive Zone.
10. | Setting up of brick kilns. | Prohibited.
B. Regulated Activities
11. | Commercial establishment of hotels and resorts. | No new commercial hotels and resorts shall be permitted within one
kilometer of the boundary of the protected area or upto the extent of
Eco-sensitive zone, whichever is nearer, except for small temporary
structures for Eco-tourism activities:
Provided that, beyond one kilometer from the boundary of the
protected area or upto the extent of Eco-sensitive Zone whichever is
nearer, all new tourist activities or expansion of existing activities
shall be in conformity with the Tourism Master Plan and guidelines
as applicable.
12. | Construction activities. | (a) No new commercial construction of any kind shall be permitted
within one kilometer from the boundary of the protected area or
up to the extent of the Eco-Sensitive Zone, whichever is nearer;
(b) Provided that, local people shall be permitted to undertake
construction in their land for their use including the activities
mentioned in sub-paragraph (1) of paragraph 3 as per building
bye-laws to meet the residential needs of the local residents. It
should not be used for hospitality purposes (hotels, homestays
and resorts):
Provided that, the construction activity related to small-
scale industries not causing pollution shall be regulated and kept
at the minimum, with the prior permission from the competent
authority as per applicable rules and regulations, if any;
(c) Beyond one kilometer it shall be regulated as per the Zonal
Master Plan.
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[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
13. | Small-scale non-polluting industries. | Non-polluting industries as per classification of industries issued by
the Central Pollution Control Board in February 2016, and non-
hazardous, 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.
14. | 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.
15. | Collection of Forest produce or Non- Timber Forest Produce (NTFP). | Regulated under applicable laws.
16. | Erection of electrical and communication towers and laying of cables and other infrastructures. | Regulated under applicable law (Underground cabling may be
promoted).
17. | Infrastructure including civic amenities. | Shall be done with mitigation measures, as per the applicable laws,
rules and regulations available guidelines.
18. | Widening and strengthening of existing roads and construction of new roads. | Taking measures of mitigation with proper Environment Impact
Assessment, as per applicable laws, rules and regulation and
available guidelines.
19. | Protection of Hill Slopes and river banks. | Regulated under applicable laws.
20. | Movement of vehicular traffic at night. | Regulated for commercial purpose under applicable laws.
21. | Ongoing agriculture and horticulture practices by local communities along with dairies, dairy farming, aquaculture and fisheries. | Permitted under applicable laws for use of locals.
22. | Discharge of treated waste water/effluents in natural water bodies or land area. | The discharge of treated waste water or effluents shall be avoided to
enter into the water bodies. Efforts to be made for recycle and reuse
of treated waste water. Otherwise, the discharge of treated waste
water or effluent shall be regulated as per applicable laws.
23. | Commercial extraction of surface and ground water. | Regulated under applicable law.
24. | Open Well, Bore Well etc. for agriculture or other usage. | Regulated and the activity should be strictly monitored by the
appropriate authority.
25. | Solid Waste Management. | Regulated under applicable laws.
26. | Introduction of Exotic species. | Regulated under applicable laws.
27. | Eco-tourism. | Regulated as per the applicable law.
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
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28. | Use of polythene bags. | Regulated as per applicable laws, where the thickness of the carry
bag should not be less than 120 microns and Nonwoven plastic carry
bag shall not be less than 60 Gram Per Square Meter.
29. | Commercial Sign boards and hoardings. | Regulated under applicable laws.
C. Promoted Activities
30. | Rain water harvesting. | Shall be actively promoted.
31. | Organic farming. | Shall be actively promoted.
32. | Adoption of green technology for all activities. | Shall be actively promoted.
33. | Cottage industries including village artisans, etc. | Shall be actively promoted.
34. | Use of renewable energy and fuels. | Bio gas, solar light etc. to be actively promoted.
35. | Agro-Forestry. | Shall be actively promoted.
36. | Plantation of Horticulture and Herbals. | Shall be actively promoted.
37. | Use of eco-friendly transport. | Shall be actively promoted.
38. | Skill Development. | Shall be actively promoted.
39. | Restoration of Degraded Land/ Forests/ Habitat. | Shall be actively promoted.
40. | Environmental Awareness. | Shall be actively promoted.
5. Monitoring Committee.- For effective monitoring of the provisions of this notification under sub-section (3) of
section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the Central Government hereby constitutes a Monitoring
Committee, comprising of the following, namely:-
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1. | District Collector, Ernakulam | Chairman, ex-officio;
2. | Regional Officer, Kerala State Pollution Control Board | Member, ex-officio;
3. | A representative of Non-governmental Organisation having expertise
in the field of environment (including heritage conservation) to be
nominated by the Kerala State Government from time to time every
three years | Member;
4. | An expert in the area of Ecology & Environment from reputed
Institution or University of the State to be nominated by the Kerala
State Government from time to time every three years | Member;
5. | President or Secretary of Mangalavanam Samrakshana Samithi | Member, ex-officio;
6. | An expert in the area of Wildlife Conservation to be nominated by
the Director, Kerala Forest Research Institute | Member, ex-officio;
7. | A representative of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board | Member, ex-officio;
8. | Town Planning officer, Kochin Corporation | Member, ex-officio;
9. | Wildlife Warden | Member Secretary,
ex-officio;
6. Functions of the Monitoring Committee: (1) The Monitoring Committee shall, based on the actual site-specific
conditions scrutinise, the activities that are covered in the Schedule to the notification of the Government of India in the
erstwhile Ministry of Environment and Forest vide number S.O. 1533 (E), dated the 14th September, 2006, and are
falling in the Eco-sensitive Zone, except for the prohibited activities as specified in the Table under paragraph 4 thereof,
and referred to the Central Government in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change or the State
Environment Impact Assessment Authority, as the case maybe, for prior environmental clearances under the provisions
of the said notification.
(2) 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 vide number S.O. 1533 (E), dated the 14th September, 2006 and are falling in the
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 concerned
Regulatory Authorities.
(3) The Member-Secretary of the Monitoring Committee or the concerned Collector or the concerned Deputy
Conservator of Forests 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.
(4) The Monitoring Committee may invite representatives or experts from concerned Departments, representatives from
industry associations or concerned stakeholders to assist in its deliberations depending on the requirements on issue to
issue basis.
(5) 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 proforma appended at Annexure IV.
(6) The Central Government in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change may give such directions, 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 provisions of this notification.
8. Supreme Court, etc. orders- The provisions 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 High Court or the National Green Tribunal.
11
Annexure-I A
Location of the Protected Area and its ESZ in the State of Kerala
LOCATION MAP OF
MANGALAVANAM BIRD SANCTUARY
Kasargod
Kannur
Kozhikkode
Wayanad
Malappuram
ARABIAN SEA
Legend
Mangalavanam PA
Mangalavanam ESZ
MANGALAVANAM PA & ESZ
Enlarged Portion
ESZ
MANGALAVANAM PA
KARNATAKA
Palakkad
Thrissur
Ernakulam
Idukki
Kottayam
Alapurza
Pathanamthitta
Kollam
Thiruvananthapuram
TAMILNADU
12
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure-I B
Map of the Protected Area and its Eco-Sensitive Zone overlaid on toposheet
ECO SENSITIVE ZONE MAP
MANGALAVANAM BIRD SANCTUARY ON TOPO SHEET (C43Q1)
ESZ Area = 12.2 Ha
Ena
Legend
GPS Point
Mangalavanam PA
Mangalavanam ESZ
13
Annexure - I C
Google Earth imagery of the Mangalavanam Bird Sactuary and its Eco-Sensitive Zone
ECO SENSITIVE ZONE MAP
MANGALAVANAM BIRD SANCTUARY
ESZ Area = 12.2 Ha
Text
Legend
GPS Point
Mangalavanam PA
Mangalavanam ESZ
Source: Esri Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographiss, ONES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN,
and the GIS User Community
14
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure- II
Boundary description of the Eco-Sensitive Zone around Mangalvanam Bird Sanctuary
The boundary line of Eco sensitive Zone of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary starts from a point with
coordinates 9°59.201′ N, 76°16.427' E at the border of Rammohan Palace in the South-west. Then,
the line runs through Salim Ali Road in the South-East starting from 9°59.227′ N, 76°16.519′ E.
Then, it runs through South-East at 9°59.323′ N, 76°16.544' E and 9°59.320′ N, 76°16.554′ E
(Mathai Manjuran Road). In the East direction, it runs through 9°59.375′ N, 76°16.572′ E (Mathai
Manjuran Road). Then, the boundary runs through 9°59.378′ N, 76°16.564' E and 9°59.393′ N,
76°16.569’E (Mathai Manjuran Road- Railway Quarters) and it continues towards East with
coordinates 9°59.389′ N, 76°16.578′E. Then it turns towards North-East with coordinates
9°59.612′ N, 76°16.645' E and 9°59.629′ N, 76°16.627′ E. Then, it passes through coordinates
9°59.500′ N, 76°16.541′ E and shares boundary with Kerala State Housing Board property and it
continues with coordinates 9°59.420' N, 76°16.521' E and 9°59.450′N, 76°16.411′ E. The
boundary of Eco sensitive Zone area ends in the North with coordinates 9°59.427′ N, 76°16.423′ E
where it is bordered with the property of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. The ESZ boundary is
adjoined in different directions by the following:
1. North-West – Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd.
2. West – Central Marine Fisheries Institute and Dr. Salim Ali Road
3. South - Old Ernakulam Railway Station
4. East – Old Ernakulam Railway Station
5. North-East – Old Ernakulam Railway Station
15
Annexure- III
Table A. Geo-coordinates of the prominent locations of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
Sr. No. | Latitude (N) | Longitude (E)
1 | 9° 59.340' N | 76° 16.348' Ε
2 | 9° 59.254' N | 76° 16.396' E
3 | 9° 59.320' N | 76° 16.455' E
4 | 9° 59.333' N | 76° 16.468' Ε
5 | 9° 59.377' N | 76° 16.451' Ε
6 | 9° 59.388' N | 76° 16.446' E
Table B. Geo-coordinates of the prominent locations of Eco-Sensitive Zone
Sr. No. | Latitude (N | Longitude (E | Location
1 | 9° 59.201' N | 76° 16.427' E | Ram Mohan Palace
2 | 9° 59.227' N | 76° 16.519' Ε | Dr. Salim Ali road starts
3 | 9° 59.323' N | 76° 16.544' Ε |
4 | 9° 59.320' N | 76° 16.554' Ε |
5 | 9° 59.375' N | 76° 16.572' Ε | Mathai Manjuran Road
6 | 9° 59.378' N | 76° 16.564' Ε |
7 | 9° 59.393' N | 76° 16.569' Ε |
8 | 9° 59.389' N | 76° 16.578' Ε |
9 | 9° 59.612' Ν | 76° 16.645' E |
10 | 9° 59.629' N | 76° 16.627' E |
11 | 9° 59.500' N | 76° 16.541' E | KSHB Boundary
12 | 9° 59.420' N | 76° 16.521' Ε |
13 | 9° 59.450' N | 76° 16.411' Ε |
14 | 9° 59.427' N | 76° 16.423' E | BPCL Boundary
16
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure - IV
Proforma of the Action Taken Report:
1. Number and date of meetings.
2. Minutes of the meetings: (mention 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 scrutinised for activities covered under the Environment Impact
Assessment Notification, 2006 (Details may be attached as separate Annexure).
6. Summary of cases scrutinised 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.
[F. No. 25/32/2017-ESZ]
Dr. S. KERKETTA, Scientist 'G'
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE
NOTIFICATION
New Delhi, the 5th March, 2026
S.O. 1160 (E).- WHEREAS, a draft notification was published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II,
Section 3,sub-section (ii) notification of the Government of the India in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change vide number S.O. 1993(E), dated 2nd may, 2025, inviting objections and suggestions from all persons likely to
be affected thereby within the period of sixty days from date on which copies of the Gazette containing the said
notification were made available to the public;
AND WHEREAS, copies of the Gazette containing the said draft notification were made available to the
public on the dated 2nd may, 2025;
AND WHEREAS, objections and suggestions received from persons and stakeholders in response to the draft
notification were duly considered by the Central Government;
AND WHEREAS, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, spread over an area of 0.0274 square kilometres, is
located in Ernakulam Village of Kanayannoor Taluk of Ernakulam district in the State of Kerala and the Sanctuary was
notified as Bird sanctuary as per G. O. (MS) No. 42/04/F & WLD dated 31st August, 2004 under section 18 of the
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972;
AND WHEREAS, This Sanctuary falls under West Coast (SA) biographic zone and the true mangrove and
mangrove associate species that exist in the area are Avicenia officinalis, Rhizophora mucronata, Acanthus ilicifolius
and Acrostichum aureum and there are more than thirty floral species, which also includes threatened species as per
International Union for Conservation of Nature in the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary. The other major flora available
in the Sanctuary are: Alternanthera sp, Azadirachta indica, Bruguiera parviflora, Caryota urens, Ceiba pentandra,
Coccinia grandis, Cuscuta reflexa, Derris trifoliate, Enterolobium saman, Eucalyptus sp, Ficus gibbosa, Hibiscus
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
17
tiliaceus, Hydnocarpus alpine, Hygrophila sp, Morinda tinctoria, Polyalthia longifolia, Pongamia pinnata, Tectona
grandis, Terminalia catappa, Tinospora cordifolia, etc.;
AND WHEREAS, This Sanctuary is also known as the "green lung of Kochi" its existence supporting a good
number of avifauna, bats, other animals and other floral species including mangroves amidst a busy city like Ernakulam
is very vital and the important avifaunal species found in the Sanctuary are as follows: large cormorant (Phalacrocorax
carbo), little cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger), darter (Anhinga rufa), grey heron (Ardea cinerea), purple heron (Ardea
purpurea), cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis), large egret (Ardea alba), smaller median egret (Egretta intermedia), little egret
(Egretta zetta), lesser whistling teal (Dendrocygna javanica), black winged kite (Elanus caeruleus), pariah kite (Milvus
migrans), Indian shikra (Accipiter badius), crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela), redwattled lapwing (Vanellus
indicus), marsh sandpiper (Tringa stagnatilis), wood sandpiper (Tringa glareola), blue rock pigeon (Columba livia),
spotted dove (Streptopelia chinensis), whitebreasted kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis), golden oriole (Oriolus oriolus),
black drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus), purple sunbird (Nectarinia asiatica), house sparrow (Passer domesticus), small
green barbet (Megalaima viridis), crimson breasted barbet (Megalaima haemacephala), black rumped flameback
(Dinopium benghalense), ashy crowned finch lark (Eremopterix grisea), sky lark (Alauda sp.), wire-tailed swallow
(Hirundo smithii), Rufous tree pie (Dendrocitta vagabunda), house crow (Corvus splendens), etc;
AND WHEREAS, the mangroves with a unique combination of specialised plants and animals are known for
their ecological functions and they play an important role in stabilizing the land along the coast and backwaters. These
specialised ecosystems accommodate a variety of marine and freshwater organisms as their nursery and feeding grounds.
There is only nine hundred hectare of mangrove areas left within the State and most of the mangrove areas within the
state fall under either private ownership or revenue land and are worst disturbed due to varieties of developmental
activities;
AND WHEREAS, This Bird Sanctuary with a small extent of 2.74 hectare of tidal wetland supports mangrove
vegetation which comprises of five species of mangroves and 25 other floral species and this patch of mangrove forest
used to support an avifauna of 97 species comprising of both migratory and resident birds and it is fascinating to note
that the small area in the midst of busy Ernakulam city is used by species of aquatic avifauna for nesting;
AND WHEREAS, apart from wetland birds, considerable number of migratory avian species visits
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary seasonally and it is a nesting site for other avian colonial nesters and there is a colony
of bats (Indian flying fox) consisting of approximately 1000 number of bats and there are no Rare, Endangered, Endemic
or Threatened species in Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary except Lutra lutra (Eurasian otter), which is in Near Threatened
category as per International Union for Conservation of Nature but there are no signtings of this mammal from last
decade;
AND WHEREAS, it is necessary to conserve and protect the area, the extent and boundaries of
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary which are specified in paragraph 1 as Eco-sensitive Zone from ecological, 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 (29 of 1986) read with sub-rule
(3) of rule 5 of the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, the Central Government hereby notifies an Eco-Sensitive
Zone around the boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary of Kerala (herein after referred to as the Eco-sensitive
Zone) details of which are as under, namely: -
1. Extent and boundaries of the Eco-Sensitive Zone – (1) The extent of Eco-Sensitive Zone varies from zero
to 0.55 kilometre around the boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary and the area of Eco-Sensitive Zone
is 0.122 square kilometre inclusive of the land belonging to Southern Railway. The Extent of Eco-sensitive
zone in different directions is given below: -
DIRECTION | EXTENT (in km)
| From the centre of Protected Area | From the boundary of Protected Area
North | 0 | 0
South | 0.226 | 0.11
East | 0.263 | 0.16
West | 0 | 0
18
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
North-East | 0.679 | 0.55
North-West | 0 | 0
South-East | 0.271 | 0.215
South-West | 0 | 0
Justification for Eco-sensitive Zone extent of 0 km in different directions of the protected area-
(a) The Eco-sensitive Zone along the northern boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is of zero extent because
it is bordered by land owned by M/s Bharat Petroleum Ltd., where there is insufficient tree cover.
(b) The western boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is bordered by land owned by M/s Central Marine
Fisheries Institute and Dr. Salim Ali Road, where there is insufficient tree cover.
(c) The north-western boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is bordered by land owned by M/s Kerala State
Housing Board, additionally there is insufficient tree cover.
(d) The Eco-Sensitive Zone along the south-western boundary of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is of zero extent
because it is bordered by old buildings, including the Kerala High Court and the Central Marine Fisheries
Research Institute.
(2) The Maps of the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary and its Eco-sensitive Zone is appended as Annexure- I A to I C.
(3) The boundary description of the Eco-Sensitive Zone is appended as Annexure-II.
(4) The geo-coordinates of the prominent locations of Mangalvanam Bird Sanctuary and its Eco-Sensitive Zone
mentioned at Table A and B is appended as Annexure-III.
(5) Eco-sensitive Zone of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary doesnot comprises of any village settlement and the area is
under the administrative control of the Revenue Department (Ernakulam Village) and is under the possession or
ownership of Indian Railways (Southern Railways, Chennai).
2. Zonal Master Plan for Eco-Sensitive Zone. –(1)The State Government shall, for the purposes of the Eco-Sensitive
Zone, prepare a Zonal Master Plan within two years from the date of publication of this notification in the Official
Gazette, in consultation with local people and in conformity to the provisions of this notification.
(2) The Zonal Master Plan for the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be prepared by the State Government in accordance
with the provisions of this notification and also in consonance with the relevant Central and State laws and
the guidelines issued by the Central Government, if any.
(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 and Wildlife;
(iii) Local Self Government Department;
(iv) Agriculture;
(v) Revenue;
(vi) Urban Development;
(vii) Tourism;
(viii) Rural Development;
(ix) Irrigation and Flood Control;
(x) Municipality;
(xi) Panchayati Raj;
(xii) Public Works Department; and
(xiii) Kerala State Pollution Control Board.
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
19
(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, villages and urban settlements, types
and kinds of forests, agricultural areas, green area, such as, parks and it's like places, horticultural areas, orchards,
lakes and other water bodies with supporting maps giving details of existing and proposed land use features.
(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 security of local
community's livelihood.
(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.
(10) Until the preparation of the Zonal Master Plan for the Eco-sensitive Zone, all new construction and other
developmental activities shall be referred to the Monitoring Committee.
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
purposes in the Eco-sensitive Zone shall not be used or converted into areas for major commercial or major
residential complex or industrial activities:
Provided that the conversion of agricultural and other lands, for the purpose other than that specified at part (a),
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 the
Central/the 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 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 eco-tourism including home stay; and
(v) promoted activities and given under paragraph 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 the State Government and without compliance of the provisions of article 244 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 within the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be corrected by the
State Government, after obtaining the views of Monitoring Committee, once in each case and the correction of said
error shall be intimated to the Central Government in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change:
Provided also that the 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 agricultural areas with afforestation and habitat
restoration activities.
20
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
(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;
(a) the Tourism Master Plan shall be prepared by the Department of Tourism in consultation with the Departments
of Environment and Forests of the State Government;
(b) the Tourism Master Plan shall form a component of the Zonal Master Plan;
(c) the Tourism Master Plan shall be drawn based on the study of carrying capacity of the Eco-Sensitive Zone;
(d) the activities of eco-tourism shall be regulated as under, namely: -
i. 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 and the eco-tourism guidelines
issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority with emphasis on eco-tourism, eco-education and
eco-development;
ii. until the Zonal Master Plan is prepared and approved, development for tourism and expansion of existing
tourism activities shall be permitted by the regulatory authorities concerned based on the actual site-
specific scrutiny and recommendation of the Monitoring Committee.
(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 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 of the Zonal Master Plan.
(6) Noise pollution.- Prevention and control of noise pollution in the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be complied in
accordance with the provisions of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 and as amended from
time to time.
(7) Air pollution.- Prevention and control of air pollution in the Eco-sensitive Zone shall be complied in accordance
with the provisions of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 (14 of 1981) and as amended from
time to time.
(8) Discharge of effluents.- The discharge of treated effluent in the Eco-Sensitive Zone shall be in accordance with
the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 (6 of 1974) and as amended from time
to time.
(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. 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 of Solid wastes in conformity with the existing rules and
regulations using identified technologies may be allowed within 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.
(b) Safe and Environmentally Sound Management 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.
(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.
(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.
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
21
(14) Vehicular traffic. – The vehicular movement of traffic shall be regulated in a habitat friendly manner and specific
provisions in this 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 thereunder.
(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 such as Compressed Natural Gas, Liquefied Petroleum
Gas, etc.
(16) Industrial units. – (a) No new polluting industries shall be allowed to be set up within the Eco-sensitive Zone on
or after the publication of this notification in the Official Gazette,
(b) Only non-polluting industries shall be allowed within the Eco-sensitive Zone as per classification of Industries in
the Guidelines issued by Central Pollution Control Board in February 2016, 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) Construction on existing steep hill slopes or slopes with a high degree of erosion shall not be permitted.
4. List of activities prohibited or to be regulated within the Eco-sensitive Zone- All activities in the Eco-sensitive
Zone shall be governed by the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the rules made there under and
other notifications, laws and acts of the Government of India pertaining to environment, forests and wildlife, in the
erstwhile Ministry of Environment and Forest, vide number 1533(E), dated the 14th September, 2006 and laws for the
time being in force in the manner specified in the Table below, namely: -
TABLE
S. No. | Activity | Description
(1) | (2) | (3)
A. Prohibited Activities
1. | Commercial Mining, stone quarrying and crushing units. | (a) All new and existing (minor and major minerals), stone
quarrying and crushing units are prohibited with immediate effect
except for meeting the domestic needs of bona fide local residents
including digging of earth for construction or repair of houses within
Eco-sensitive Zone;
(b) The mining operations shall be carried out in accordance with
the orders of the Hon'ble Supreme Court dated the 4th August, 2006
in the matter of T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad Vs. UOI in W.P.(C)
No. 202 of 1995 and Goa Foundation Vs. UOI in W.P.(C) No. 435
of 2012 dated the 21st April, 2014 and IA No. 1000 of 2003 dated the
3rd June, 2022, IA No. 131377 of 2022 judgment dated the 26th April,
2023 and 28th April, 2023, and subsequent IA Nos. 162033 and
162034 of 2025 with IA Nos. 162154 & 162155 of 2025 order dated
23rd July 2025.
2. | Setting of industries causing pollution (Water, Air, Soil, Noise, etc.). | New industries and expansion of existing polluting industries in the
Eco-sensitive Zone shall not be permitted:
Provided that, non-polluting industries shall be allowed
within Eco-Sensitive Zone as per classification of Industries in the
guidelines issued by the Central Pollution Control Board in February,
2016, unless so specified in this notification and in addition, the non-
polluting cottage industries shall be promoted.
22
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
S. No. | Activity | Description
(1) | (2) | (3)
3. | Establishment of major hydroelectric project. | Prohibited.
4. | Use, production, or processing of any hazardous substances. | Prohibited.
5. | Discharge of untreated effluents in natural water bodies or land area. | Prohibited.
6. | Establishment of Solid Waste disposal site and common incineration facility for solid and bio medical waste. | No Solid Waste disposal site and waste treatment or processing
facility of solid waste is permitted within Eco-sensitive zone and
further installation of common or individual incineration facility for
treatment of any form of solid waste generated from industrial
process and health establishment/hospital etc. is prohibited.
7. | Establishment of large-scale commercial livestock and poultry farms by firms, corporate, companies. | Prohibited.
8. | Under taking other activities related to tourism like flying over the protected area and its Eco-sensitive zone area by hot air balloon, helicopter, drones, Microlites, and other aircrafts etc. | Prohibited.
Provided that, the Forest and Wildlife Departments may use drone
for creating awareness on forest, environment and wildlife
conservation by making documentaries for non-commercial purpose.
9. | Setting of new saw mills. | No new or expansion of existing saw mills shall be permitted within
the Eco-sensitive Zone.
10. | Setting up of brick kilns. | Prohibited.
B. Regulated Activities
11. | Commercial establishment of hotels and resorts. | No new commercial hotels and resorts shall be permitted within one
kilometer of the boundary of the protected area or upto the extent of
Eco-sensitive zone, whichever is nearer, except for small temporary
structures for Eco-tourism activities:
Provided that, beyond one kilometer from the boundary of the
protected area or upto the extent of Eco-sensitive Zone whichever is
nearer, all new tourist activities or expansion of existing activities
shall be in conformity with the Tourism Master Plan and guidelines
as applicable.
12. | Construction activities. | (a) No new commercial construction of any kind shall be permitted
within one kilometer from the boundary of the protected area or
up to the extent of the Eco-Sensitive Zone, whichever is nearer;
(b) Provided that, local people shall be permitted to undertake
construction in their land for their use including the activities
mentioned in sub-paragraph (1) of paragraph 3 as per building
bye-laws to meet the residential needs of the local residents. It
should not be used for hospitality purposes (hotels, homestays
and resorts):
Provided that, the construction activity related to small-
scale industries not causing pollution shall be regulated and kept
at the minimum, with the prior permission from the competent
authority as per applicable rules and regulations, if any;
(c) Beyond one kilometer it shall be regulated as per the Zonal
Master Plan.
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
23
S. No. | Activity | Description
(1) | (2) | (3)
13. | Small-scale non-polluting industries. | Non-polluting industries as per classification of industries issued by
the Central Pollution Control Board in February 2016, and non-
hazardous, 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.
14. | 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.
15. | Collection of Forest produce or Non- Timber Forest Produce (NTFP). | Regulated under applicable laws.
16. | Erection of electrical and communication towers and laying of cables and other infrastructures. | Regulated under applicable law (Underground cabling may be
promoted).
17. | Infrastructure including civic amenities. | Shall be done with mitigation measures, as per the applicable laws,
rules and regulations available guidelines.
18. | Widening and strengthening of existing roads and construction of new roads. | Taking measures of mitigation with proper Environment Impact
Assessment, as per applicable laws, rules and regulation and
available guidelines.
19. | Protection of Hill Slopes and river banks. | Regulated under applicable laws.
20. | Movement of vehicular traffic at night. | Regulated for commercial purpose under applicable laws.
21. | Ongoing agriculture and horticulture practices by local communities along with dairies, dairy farming, aquaculture and fisheries. | Permitted under applicable laws for use of locals.
22. | Discharge of treated waste water/effluents in natural water bodies or land area. | The discharge of treated waste water or effluents shall be avoided to
enter into the water bodies. Efforts to be made for recycle and reuse
of treated waste water. Otherwise, the discharge of treated waste
water or effluent shall be regulated as per applicable laws.
23. | Commercial extraction of surface and ground water. | Regulated under applicable law.
24. | Open Well, Bore Well etc. for agriculture or other usage. | Regulated and the activity should be strictly monitored by the
appropriate authority.
25. | Solid Waste Management. | Regulated under applicable laws.
26. | Introduction of Exotic species. | Regulated under applicable laws.
27. | Eco-tourism. | Regulated as per the applicable law.
24
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
S. No. | Activity | Description
(1) | (2) | (3)
28. | Use of polythene bags. | Regulated as per applicable laws, where the thickness of the carry
bag should not be less than 120 microns and Nonwoven plastic carry
bag shall not be less than 60 Gram Per Square Meter.
29. | Commercial Sign boards and hoardings. | Regulated under applicable laws.
C. Promoted Activities
30. | Rain water harvesting. | Shall be actively promoted.
31. | Organic farming. | Shall be actively promoted.
32. | Adoption of green technology for all activities. | Shall be actively promoted.
33. | Cottage industries including village artisans, etc. | Shall be actively promoted.
34. | Use of renewable energy and fuels. | Bio gas, solar light etc. to be actively promoted.
35. | Agro-Forestry. | Shall be actively promoted.
36. | Plantation of Horticulture and Herbals. | Shall be actively promoted.
37. | Use of eco-friendly transport. | Shall be actively promoted.
38. | Skill Development. | Shall be actively promoted.
39. | Restoration of Degraded Land/ Forests/ Habitat. | Shall be actively promoted.
40. | Environmental Awareness. | Shall be actively promoted.
5. Monitoring Committee.- For effective monitoring of the provisions of this notification under sub-section (3) of
section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the Central Government hereby constitutes a Monitoring
Committee, comprising of the following, namely:-
1. | District Collector, Ernakulam | Chairman, ex-officio;
2. | Regional Officer, Kerala State Pollution Control Board | Member, ex-officio;
3. | A representative of Non-governmental Organisation having expertise
in the field of environment (including heritage conservation) to be
nominated by the Kerala State Government from time to time every
three years | Member;
4. | An expert in the area of Ecology & Environment from reputed
Institution or University of the State to be nominated by the Kerala
State Government from time to time every three years | Member;
5. | President or Secretary of Mangalavanam Samrakshana Samithi | Member, ex-officio;
6. | An expert in the area of Wildlife Conservation to be nominated by
the Director, Kerala Forest Research Institute | Member, ex-officio;
7. | A representative of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board | Member, ex-officio;
8. | Town Planning officer, Kochin Corporation | Member, ex-officio;
9. | Wildlife Warden | Member Secretary,
ex-officio;
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
25
6. Functions of the Monitoring Committee: (1) The Monitoring Committee shall, based on the actual site-specific
conditions scrutinise, the activities that are covered in the Schedule to the notification of the Government of India in the
erstwhile Ministry of Environment and Forest vide number S.O. 1533 (E), dated the 14th September, 2006, and are
falling in the Eco-sensitive Zone, except for the prohibited activities as specified in the Table under paragraph 4 thereof,
and referred to the Central Government in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change or the State
Environment Impact Assessment Authority, as the case maybe, for prior environmental clearances under the provisions
of the said notification.
(2) 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 vide number S.O. 1533 (E), dated the 14th September, 2006 and are falling in the
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 concerned
Regulatory Authorities.
(3) The Member-Secretary of the Monitoring Committee or the concerned Collector or the concerned Deputy
Conservator of Forests 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.
(4) The Monitoring Committee may invite representatives or experts from concerned Departments, representatives from
industry associations or concerned stakeholders to assist in its deliberations depending on the requirements on issue to
issue basis.
(5) 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 proforma appended at Annexure IV.
(6) The Central Government in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change may give such directions, 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 provisions of this notification.
8. Supreme Court, etc. orders- The provisions 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 High Court or the National Green Tribunal.
26
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure- I A
Location of the Protected Area and its ESZ in the State of Kerala
LOCATION MAP OF
MANGALAVANAM BIRD SANCTUARY
Kasargod
Kannur
Kozhikkode
Wayanad
Malappuram
ARABIAN SEA
Legend
Mangalavanam PA
Mangalavanam ESZ
MANGALAVANAM PA & ESZ
Enlarged Portion
ESZ
MANGALAVANAM PA
KARNATAKA
Palakkad
Thrissur
Ernakulam
Idukki
Kottayam
Alapurza
Pathanamthitta
Kollam
Thiruvananthapuram
TAMILNADU
27
Annexure- I B
Map of the Protected Area and its Eco-Sensitive Zone overlaid on toposheet
ECO SENSITIVE ZONE MAP
MANGALAVANAM BIRD SANCTUARY ON TOPO SHEET (C43Q1)
ESZ Area = 12.2 Ha
Ena
Legend
GPS Point
Mangalavanam PA
Mangalavanam ESZ
28
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure- I C
Google Earth imagery of the Mangalavanam Bird Sactuary and its Eco-Sensitive Zone
ECO SENSITIVE ZONE MAP
MANGALAVANAM BIRD SANCTUARY
ESZ Area = 12.2 Ha
Text
Legend
GPS Point
Mangalavanam PA
Mangalavanam ESZ
Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographies, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN
and the GIS User Community
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
29
Annexure- II
Boundary description of the Eco-Sensitive Zone around Mangalvanam Bird Sanctuary
The boundary line of Eco sensitive Zone of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary starts from a point with
coordinates 9°59.201′ N, 76°16.427' E at the border of Rammohan Palace in the South-west. Then,
the line runs through Salim Ali Road in the South-East starting from 9°59.227′ N, 76°16.519′ E.
Then, it runs through South-East at 9°59.323′ N, 76°16.544' E and 9°59.320′ N, 76°16.554′ E
(Mathai Manjuran Road). In the East direction, it runs through 9°59.375′ N, 76°16.572′ E (Mathai
Manjuran Road). Then, the boundary runs through 9°59.378′ N, 76°16.564' E and 9°59.393′ N,
76°16.569’E (Mathai Manjuran Road- Railway Quarters) and it continues towards East with
coordinates 9°59.389′ N, 76°16.578′E. Then it turns towards North-East with coordinates
9°59.612′ N, 76°16.645' E and 9°59.629′ N, 76°16.627′ E. Then, it passes through coordinates
9°59.500′ N, 76°16.541′ E and shares boundary with Kerala State Housing Board property and it
continues with coordinates 9°59.420' N, 76°16.521' E and 9°59.450′N, 76°16.411′ E. The
boundary of Eco sensitive Zone area ends in the North with coordinates 9°59.427′ N, 76°16.423′ E
where it is bordered with the property of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. The ESZ boundary is
adjoined in different directions by the following:
1. North-West – Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd.
2. West – Central Marine Fisheries Institute and Dr. Salim Ali Road
3. South - Old Ernakulam Railway Station
4. East – Old Ernakulam Railway Station
5. North-East – Old Ernakulam Railway Station
30
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
Annexure- III
Table A. Geo-coordinates of the prominent locations of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
Sr. No. | Latitude (N) | Longitude (E)
1 | 9° 59.340' N | 76° 16.348' Ε
2 | 9° 59.254' N | 76° 16.396' E
3 | 9° 59.320' N | 76° 16.455' E
4 | 9° 59.333' N | 76° 16.468' Ε
5 | 9° 59.377' N | 76° 16.451' Ε
6 | 9° 59.388' N | 76° 16.446' E
Table B. Geo-coordinates of the prominent locations of Eco-Sensitive Zone
Sr. No. | Latitude (N | Longitude (E | Location
1 | 9° 59.201' N | 76° 16.427' E | Ram Mohan Palace
2 | 9° 59.227' N | 76° 16.519' Ε | Dr. Salim Ali road starts
3 | 9° 59.323' N | 76° 16.544' Ε |
4 | 9° 59.320' N | 76° 16.554' Ε |
5 | 9° 59.375' N | 76° 16.572' Ε | Mathai Manjuran Road
6 | 9° 59.378' N | 76° 16.564' Ε |
7 | 9° 59.393' N | 76° 16.569' Ε |
8 | 9° 59.389' N | 76° 16.578' Ε |
9 | 9° 59.612' Ν | 76° 16.645' E |
10 | 9° 59.629' N | 76° 16.627' E |
11 | 9° 59.500' N | 76° 16.541' E | KSHB Boundary
12 | 9° 59.420' N | 76° 16.521' Ε |
13 | 9° 59.450' N | 76° 16.411' Ε |
14 | 9° 59.427' N | 76° 16.423' E | BPCL Boundary
[PART II-SEC. 3(ii)]
THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY
31
Annexure- IV
Proforma of the Action Taken Report:
1. Number and date of meetings.
2. Minutes of the meetings: (mention 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 scrutinised for activities covered under the Environment Impact
Assessment Notification, 2006 (Details may be attached as separate Annexure).
6. Summary of cases scrutinised 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.
[F. No. 25/32/2017-ESZ]
Dr. S. KERKETTA, Scientist 'G'
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. GORAKHA NATH YADAVA Digitally signed by GORAKHA NATH YADAVA
Date: 2026.03.09 16:23:50 +05'30'
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