deemed forest

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Karnataka government faces a setback regarding Bhadra Tiger Reserve. The National Tiger Conservation Authority has clarified that the entire buffer zone must be considered an Eco-Sensitive Zone. This directive halts efforts by local legislators to reduce the buffer, which includes villages and private lands. The move aims to protect wildlife and prevent development restrictions.

The forest department is assessing the condition of deemed forests in Delhi to record the change in tree density. Officials will visit these areas with land-owning agencies and carry out tree plantation. The department filed an affidavit in the High Court, stating that deputy conservators of forests are required to assess the conditions and undertake joint visits to plan re-afforestation. Digitalisation of deemed forest land has been completed, and the department has asked for clarification on roadside plantations. There is an urgent need to protect and replant trees in deemed forests.

The order was described by environmentalists as a landmark one because it makes the land in Sarai Khwaja the first in the state to be legally classified as a 'deemed forest'.

The Delhi High Court has asked various city authorities to provide information on the status of deemed forests within their jurisdiction. The court has requested details on the latest status of these forests to be provided to the forest department. The court is hearing a petition on the preservation of green cover in the city and has also asked for a report on compensatory afforestation. The court emphasized the need for a balance between development and conservation and may take action if necessary.