The National Green Tribunal has taken suo motu cognizance of the urgent need to protect the Ladakh Bird Sanctuary, which is home to over 430 species of birds.
The Original Application is registered suo-motu on the basis of the news item dated November 16, 2024.
As per the article, the sanctuary, located in the northern Indian region of Ladakh, is facing significant environmental threats, particularly due to climate change, habitat degradation, and human activities. These factors are endangering the rich biodiversity of the sanctuary and threatening the survival of various bird species.
The article highlights the sanctuary supports both migratory and resident bird species, including the Tibetan Snowcock, Himalayan Griffon Vulture, and Bar-headed Goose, and serves as an important site for birdwatching, ecotourism, and scientific research.
It states that climate change has significantly impacted bird distribution patterns in Ladakh. Birds traditionally found in lower altitudes around Kargil or Sham region are now being spotted in higher elevations near Leh and the Rong region of eastern Ladakh. The House Sparrow’s declining presence in Leh Town due to urbanization and the delayed migration patterns of winter visitors by 10-15 days in 2024 exemplify these changes. The Black-Throated Thrush, typically seen by mid-October, was only spotted in November 2024, coinciding with one of the warmest years on record.
Furthermore, it is alleged that the threats to the sanctuary’s biodiversity are multifaceted. Climate change particularly shifts in weather patterns and temperature conditions have disrupted the natural cycles that birds depend on for sustenance and breeding. These alterations have made it increasingly difficult for birds to find reliable food sources and suitable nesting locations. The region’s growing human footprint poses another significant threat. As Ladakh’s population expands, there’s an increasing demand for urban development, farming land, and new infrastructure. This expansion steadily encroaches on the natural territories that birds have historically inhabited.
The wildlife sanctuary faces mounting pressure as these human activities continue to shrink available habitats. Tourism presents a double-edged sword for the region. While it contributes positively to the local economy, its environmental impact is concerning. The constant flow of visitors results in habitat disturbance, increased pollution levels, and waste accumulation. These tourist-related activities create additional stress on the bird populations, further compromising their ability to thrive in their natural environment.
The Principal Bench comprising Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Judicial Member Arun Kumar Tyagi and Expert Member Dr A Senthil Vel has observed that the matter indicates a violation of the provisions of Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
The NGT has impleaded several respondents, including the Ladakh Pollution Control Committee, Central Pollution Control Board, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and the Deputy Commissioner of Leh.
The tribunal has directed the respondents to file their responses by way of affidavit at least one week before the next date of hearing.
The NGT has listed the matter for hearing on March 20, 2025.
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