(a) whether Inland tourism has been affected due to Eco-Sensitive Zones declared by
Ministry of Environment and Forests in various parts of the country;
(b) if so, the steps taken by the Government in this direction;
(c) whether any protests have been made against Eco-Sensitive Zones to safeguard
Inland tourism; and
(d) if so, the details and the steps taken to boost Inland tourism in such areas?
MINISTER OF TOURISM AND CULTURE (SHRI JAGMOHAN)
(a) and (b): Union Ministry of Environment and Forests have so far issued three
Notifications declaring Dahanu Taluka, Mahableshwar-Panchgani and Matheran all in
Maharashtra as Eco-Sensitive Zones under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The
State Government of Maharashtra have informed the Central Government that no effect
on Inland Tourism activity has been reported.
(c): The State Government of Maharashtra informed that there has been no protest on
record from any agency.
(d): The State Government of Maharashtra has informed that a Zonal Master Plan for
Eco-Sensitive Zones which includes a Tourism Master Plan as well, is under preparation
for developing Inland Tourism in the notified areas.