14 hrs ago

Rajasthan High Court Orders Jawai Leopard Habitat Protection Framework

The Rajasthan High Court created new rules to protect leopards in the Jawai area of Pali district.

A one-kilometre zone around important leopard places will temporarily limit construction.

The court said this distance is an evidence-based rule for now, not a permanent ecological boundary.

Mining, blasting, new roads and structures that block leopard movement are restricted.

Some village homes, repairs, schools, medical facilities and water infrastructure can still be allowed.

Traditional farming, grazing and other customary livelihoods are also protected if they follow wildlife-friendly conditions.

Tourism rules now ban night safaris, drones, baiting and artificial lights.

Officials must map the habitat and make the maps public before preparing a broader policy.

Key facts

Interim distance: A one-kilometre threshold applies around identified critical leopard habitat features.
Mapping requirement: Authorities must conduct geo-referenced mapping and ecological and carrying-capacity assessments.
Prohibited construction: New construction, hill cutting, blasting, excavation, roads, tracks, boundary walls and commercial structures are barred on identified habitat features.
Tourism restrictions: Night safaris, baiting, artificial illumination, drones, unauthorised entry into no-go areas and vehicle congregations near leopard caves are prohibited.
Permitted activities: Bona fide village housing, lawful repairs, essential public facilities, traditional agriculture, grazing and customary livelihoods may continue under conditions.
Implementation: The District Collector and Deputy Conservator of Forests, Pali, are responsible for inter-departmental implementation.
Public access: The habitat map must be made public and displayed at the relevant gram panchayats.

theprint.in · 15 hrs ago