Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as one of the most resplendent sanctuaries for wildlife in India. It is home to the world’s largest population of the one-horned rhinoceros, as well as a diverse spectrum of flora and fauna. For me, as a proud citizen of India, watching the potential destruction of this pristine habitat is deeply distressing.

The current proposal to reduce the eco-sensitive zone surrounding Kaziranga from 10 km to 1 km could have catastrophic impacts on the environment and biodiversity. Eco-sensitive zones are critical buffers that protect wildlife and their habitats from the harmful impacts of urbanization, industrial activities, and poaching. A reduction of this zone undermines the efforts to conserve these species and preserve the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

Studies have shown that buffer zones serve a crucial role in sustaining biodiversity. They prevent human-wildlife conflicts, provide space for animal movement, and mitigate pollution. By shrinking this buffer, we risk escalating man-animal conflicts, increasing poaching incidents, and causing irreversible damage to the wildlife that calls Kaziranga home.

Kaziranga plays a significant role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting local livelihoods through eco-tourism. Protecting this area will not only preserve its natural beauty but will also safeguard the economic well-being of the communities reliant on it.

I propose that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change reassesses this decision and considers the long-term environmental impacts over short-term developmental gains. We urge the government to maintain the 10 km buffer zone around Kaziranga, enhancing rather than diminishing our efforts in conservation.

Please join me in taking a stand for wildlife, biodiversity, and our natural heritage. Sign this petition to urge the authorities to reverse their decision and protect Kaziranga for future generations.