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Hasdeo Arand Forest and Ongoing Protests
Context
The Hasdeo forest in Chhattisgarh, often referred to as the "lungs of Chhattisgarh," has recently become a flashpoint for conflict between local villagers, environmental activists, and government authorities. The resumption of tree-felling for coal mining in this ecologically rich region has sparked protests, leading to clashes with police and raising significant concerns about biodiversity, tribal rights, and environmental degradation.
What is the Hasdeo Arand Forest?
- The Hasdeo Arand forest is one of the largest un-fragmented forest ecosystems in Central India, spanning approximately 1,879.6 square kilometers across the districts of Sarguja, Korba, and Surajpur. It is characterized by its diverse flora and fauna, including:
- Biodiversity: The forest is home to numerous species, including nine that are specially protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, such as elephants, leopards, and sloth bears. It also hosts 640 floral species, 128 medicinal plants, and various timber-yielding species.
- Ecological Importance: The Hasdeo Arand serves as a crucial habitat and migration corridor for wildlife, particularly elephants and tigers.
- Significance of Mining in Hasdeo
- The Hasdeo-Arand Coalfield (HAC) is significant for coal mining, with 23 coal blocks identified, covering about 437.72 square kilometers. Notably, several blocks, such as Parsa and Kente Extension, have been auctioned to companies, including Adani Enterprises.
- Mining activities are considered essential for meeting energy demands; however, they pose a substantial threat to the forest ecosystem and local communities, whose livelihoods depend on agriculture and forest resources.
Reasons for Opposition to Mining
- Environmental Concerns: Villagers argue that mining will devastate their villages, destroy forest cover, and impact their livelihoods, leading to long-term ecological damage.
- Compensation and Resettlement Issues: Many locals are dissatisfied with government compensation and resettlement offers, claiming they are being moved to smaller houses and losing their land.
- Allegations of Improper Procedures: Activists allege that fake gram sabha resolutions were used to secure environmental clearances for mining projects, undermining local governance and consent.
- Demand for Protection: Activists are calling for the cancellation of specific coal blocks and for the protection of the Lemru Reserve Forest, emphasizing the need to respect legislative resolutions aimed at preserving the environment.
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