(a) whether rapid pace of urbanisation has led to deforestation, loss of bio-diversity and improper use of natural resources; and
(b) if so, the steps taken and schemes initiated to arrest deforestation, maintain bio-diversity and to ensure proper and justified use of natural resources?
MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI T.R. BAALU)
(a) & (b) Urbanisation invariably involves change in the land use and in this process cutting down of few trees may also be necessary. In this process some variations in biodiversity may be inevitable. State Governments and local bodies are already taking various measures such as creation of green belts, avenue plantations etc. In addition there are various legislations enacted by Central / State Governments which take care of the environmental problems.