16th November 2024 (9 Topics)
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Human-Elephant Conflicts in Hasdeso Arand
Context
The expansion of coal mining in the PEKB block has led to severe ecological consequences, particularly affecting local wildlife. The destruction of elephant habitats has caused these animals to wander into nearby human settlements, resulting in a significant increase in human-elephant conflicts. This has led to fatal encounters, drawing attention to the long-term environmental and socio-economic impacts of mining activities in the region.
About Hasdeo Arand
- Often referred to as the “lungs of Chhattisgarh,” Hasdeo Arand covers nearly 1,500 square kilometres of dense forest.
- The region is rich in biodiversity, home to over 25 mammalian species, many of which are endangered.
- A critical elephant corridor runs through these forests, connecting elephant populations in Jharkhand to Chhattisgarh’s Korba district.
- The forest also serves as the catchment area for one of the Mahanadi River’s largest tributaries, a lifeline for millions downstream.
- Historical Mining Restrictions: In 2010, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) declared the entire Hasdeo Arand a “no-go” zone for coal mining, due to its critical ecological importance. Despite this, the “no-go” status has been gradually eroded over the years due to growing economic pressures.
- Recent Developments and Contradictory Reports: In October 2021, the government allowed mining to resume in Parsa and Kete Extension coal blocks, and operations had already started in Parsa East and Kanta Basan (PEKB).
Impact of Expansion of Coal Mining in the PEKB Block
- Ecological and Wildlife Consequences: It has led to the destruction of large areas of forest since the first phase of mining began in 2013. This has disrupted vital water sources for elephants, forcing them to migrate farther in search of water.
- Increased Human-Elephant Conflicts: As a result, elephants have ventured into human settlements, leading to increased human-elephant conflicts. Elephants, once predictable in their movements, have become more aggressive due to the loss of their natural corridors. Over the past four years, 72 elephants have died, and human fatalities from elephant attacks have surged, with one death occurring every five days.
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