Encroachments put J’khand ‘queen of hills’ at risk

NETARHAT, long celebrated as the "queen of hills" in Jharkhand, is facing rapid, unchecked construction that residents and conservationists say violates SC guidelines meant to protect Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ).

- MUKESH RANJAN @ Ranchi

Much of the plateau lies next to the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary, the Palamu Tiger Reserve and Betla National Park, placing it firmly within the ESZ where new commercial structures require strict environmental clearance.

According to locals, a surge of illegal hotel and resort construction has triggered what they describe as an environmental, social and legal crisis. The Supreme Court has ruled that any new work inside ESZ boundaries without prior approval is illegal. Yet, several multi-storey hotels have come up in recent months around Netarhat's most sensitive locations, including Sunset Point and Koel View Point.

NORMS GO FOR A TOSS

Locals report a surge of illegal hotels and resortsespecially near Sunset Point and Koel View Point. Many lack environmental clearance and NOCs