Environmental activist exposes systematic destruction at Kerwa Dam

The systematic destruction of Madhya Pradesh's Kerwa Dam area, a vital tiger corridor home to nearly 30 tigers, has prompted environmental activist Rashid Noor Khan to issue an urgent alarm. In a detailed complaint to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Khan has exposed a web of illegal activities that threatens one of the region's most sensitive ecological zones.

The Kerwa Dam area, spanning from Berasia Chichhli to the rear sections of Kerwa, represents a crucial wildlife corridor where "28 to 30 tigers have regular movement patterns recorded," according to Khan's observations. Despite its protected status and ecological significance, the region has become a hotspot for environmental crimes.

Orchestrated Deforestation Campaign

Khan's investigation reveals shocking evidence of planned deforestation. "More than 50 trees have been systematically cut down in the area," he states in his complaint. What makes the case particularly alarming is the proximity to forest checkposts.

"This work was carried out despite being near the forest outpost, which clearly indicates conspiratorial collusion," Khan emphasises.

The activist suspects the illegal logging extends deeper into the forest, warning that "there is complete suspicion that more trees are being cut inside the forest." The broader context of development pressures in the region intensifies his concerns.

Development Versus Conservation

The environmental crisis at Kerwa Dam reflects a broader conflict between rapid urbanisation and wildlife conservation. Khan points out that "a wide 4-lane road has already been built throughout this area, and now only the central natural forest remains, which is connected by a narrow road."

This infrastructure development has created what Khan describes as a deliberate strategy:

"It is clear that there is a conspiracy to weaken the density of the forest area and gradually open paths for construction and development work up to private lands."

Multiple Environmental Violations

Beyond deforestation, Khan documents a range of environmental crimes plaguing the area. Regular dumping of garbage has created fire hazards, with "incidents of fires occurring in dry leaves and bushes due to waste being regularly thrown in the area." These fires not only destroy forest cover but also "endanger the lives of wildlife".

Illegal settlements further complicate the situation. "Illegal slums are being established on irrigation department lands adjacent to the forest," Khan reports, warning these encroachments will "promote human-tiger conflict in the future."

Administrative Corruption Exposed

Perhaps most damaging to conservation efforts is the alleged corruption within the forest department itself. Khan's investigation reveals the appointment of tainted employees at the area's forest outposts, who collect money from illegal tractors and other vehicles passing through.

These corrupt officials "sit at outposts in khaki uniforms, creating a confusing situation", effectively providing cover for illegal activities while wearing the badge of forest protection.

Legal Violations and Demands

Khan emphasises that these activities constitute

"open violations not only of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 but also of the Environment Protection Act 1986 and the Indian Forest Act 1927."

His demands include immediate high-level investigation, declaration of the area as a protected forest zone, and establishment of permanent monitoring committees. "The remaining forest strip between Kerwa-Berasia Chichhli should be protected as a tiger corridor," he insists.

Race Against Time

The Kerwa Dam situation represents a critical test for Madhya Pradesh's commitment to wildlife conservation. With tiger populations slowly recovering across India, protecting corridors like Kerwa becomes essential for long-term species survival.

As Khan concludes in his appeal, "I request you to take cognisance of this serious environmental crisis and take appropriate action immediately." Whether administrative authorities will take action before irreversible damage to this vital tiger corridor remains a question.

The fate of Kerwa's tigers now rests in the hands of those entrusted with their protection. 

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