Journalism of Courage
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna will meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to apprise him of the problems which the state government faces in implementing the notification issued by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forest regarding the creation of a New Eco-Sensitive Zone ESZ in the state.
Earlier,the central government had declared the entire watershed of 100 km stretch of the river Bhagirathi from Gaumukh to Uttarkashi covering an area of 4179.59 sq km as ESZ. The state Cabinet,which met on April 29,has decided to oppose the notification regarding ESZ in Uttarakhand on the plea that it would adversely affect infra-structure development projects. The Cabinet has authorised Bahuguna to talk to the Centre and the party leadership to get amended the notification in the interest of the state.
Sources in the government said Bahuguna has also requested Union Water Resources Minister Harish Rawat to accompany him during his meeting with the Prime Minister. Bahuguna is also expected to meet UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and tell her about anti-ESZ sentiments that prevail among the people of hill areas.
