Local Fishermen Rally for Reduced Eco-Sensitive Zone Around Kaziranga
Support for Reduced Eco-Sensitive Zone
Biswanath Chariali, Aug 21: On Friday, a large crowd gathered at Biswanath Ghat to show their backing for Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's initiative to lessen the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) surrounding Kaziranga National Park. This gathering was in direct opposition to Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi's call to maintain the current ESZ boundaries.
The demonstration was spearheaded by local fishermen, who voiced concerns that an extended ESZ would negatively impact their traditional fishing rights and livelihoods along the Brahmaputra River.
Participants claimed that fishermen in Upper Assam have already encountered challenges due to restrictions linked to the expansion of Kaziranga National Park.
Supporters of the government's plan to reduce the ESZ expressed that this change would alleviate hardships for communities reliant on the Brahmaputra for their sustenance. They criticized Gogoi for opposing the reduction, arguing that his stance disregards the struggles faced by local fishermen and residents.
With placards in hand, the demonstrators marched through Biswanath Ghat, chanting slogans that condemned the Congress party.
Concerns were also raised regarding the potential repercussions of a larger ESZ on Biswanath Chariali and its neighboring regions. Protesters noted that a 10-km ESZ could encompass the town and significantly impact the fishing rights of families dependent on the river.
One participant expressed gratitude towards Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for his efforts to reduce the ESZ.
“We appreciate the Chief Minister's initiative to cut the ESZ from 10 km to 1 km. Back in 2011, we opposed the ESZ as Biswanath did not want it. We protested in Bokakhat, but our voices went unheard during the Congress administration,” he stated.
The protester criticized Gogoi for his lack of understanding regarding the ESZ, suggesting he should familiarize himself with the relevant laws.
Demonstrators emphasized that conservation efforts should not compromise the livelihoods of communities that have historically relied on the Brahmaputra for fishing.