Buffer zone: Kerala approaches SC seeking exemption for 23 areas

NEW DELHI: Kerala has approached the Supreme Court seeking exemption for 23 areas in the buffer zone. This is in support of the central government's demand for exemption from the implementation of the buffer zone order in areas where the draft and final notifications have come out.

The state has submitted the recommendation regarding the buffer zone of 17 wildlife sanctuaries and six national protected parks in Kerala to the Union Ministry of Forests and Environment. The Centre has issued draft notifications for all except Periyar National Park and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The Centre has also issued a final notification regarding the buffer zone around Mathikettan National Park. The Supreme Court will consider the central government's plea on January 13. Standing Counsel Nishe Rajan Shankar filed the petition on behalf of Kerala.