This news report highlights a controversial decision by the Indian government to allow oil and gas exploration in the eco-sensitive zone of the Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam.
Key takeaways:
The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has approved a proposal by Vedanta Group's Cairn Oil and Gas to carry out oil and gas exploration in the sanctuary's eco-sensitive zone.
Environmental concerns: Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary is home to endangered species like the hoolock gibbon.
The company has assured that no commercial drilling will be conducted and that no hazardous substances will be used, there are concerns about the potential impact of exploration activities on the fragile ecosystem of the sanctuary.
"National interest" argument: The decision was justified by citing "national interest," highlighting the potential economic benefits of oil and gas exploration.
Raises important questions about the balance between economic development and environmental conservation.
The Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary,
formerly known as the Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary or Hollongapar Reserved Forest, is an isolated protected area of evergreen forest located in Assam, India.
The sanctuary was officially constituted and renamed in 1997
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