๐ฟ Environmental Groups Clash Over Western Ghats ESA
Environmental groups are criticizing protests against the re-issued draft notification to declare parts of the Western Ghats as an ESA. The Wayanad Prakruthi Samrakshana Samithi (WPSS) argued that opposition harbors a 'hidden agenda' driven by vested interests. The seventh draft notification, issued by the Union Environment Ministry on July 27, 2026, proposes covering 56,825.7 sq. km across six States, including 9,993.7 sq. km in Kerala. WPSS stated the ESA aims to protect biodiversity and mitigate climate change impacts without displacing local communities. Objections are currently open until September 25, 2026. ๐ฟ