KOCHI: The High Court has sought an explanation from the central government on a petition challenging the draft notification issued to include 131 villages in the environmentally sensitive zone. Justice V G Arun postponed further proceedings till October 4 when the petition will be considered again. The interim order is on the petition filed by Pala resident Thomas K George.

The central government issued a draft notification on July 31. The High Court had ordered that the Malayalam translation of the notification should also be published. After this, it was suggested that a decision should be taken after listening to the concerned parties. The petition pointed out that this did not happen.

A clear map of the areas included in the eco-sensitive zone has not been published. The state has not recommended which villages should be included. According to the notification, Poonjar Thekkekara Village and Teekoy Village, where the petitioners have land, fall in the environmentally sensitive area.