ESZ - GS questions based on daily current affairs

1)   Which of the following activities are prohibited in eco-sensitive zones?

1) Flying over protected areas in an aircraft
2) Commercial use of firewood
3) Setting up of hotels and resorts
4) Commercial mining
5) Setting of saw mills


a. 2, 3, 4
b. 2, 3, 4, 5
c. 1, 2, 4, 5
d. All of the above
Answer  Explanation 

ANSWER: 1, 2, 4, 5

Explanation:
The ESZ guidelines says that activities, including commercial mining, setting of saw mills and industries causing pollution, commercial use of firewood and major hydro-power projects, are prohibited in such areas.

It also prohibits tourism activities like flying over protected areas in an aircraft or hot air balloon, and discharge of effluents and solid waste in natural water bodies or terrestrial areas.

Felling of trees, drastic change in agriculture systems and commercial use of natural water resources, including groundwater harvesting and setting up of hotels and resorts, are the activities regulated in the areas.

Activities permitted in the areas include ongoing agriculture and horticulture practices by local communities, rainwater harvesting, organic farming, adoption of green technology and use of renewable energy sources.


2)   Which of the following is/are true regarding Eco-Sensitive Zone?

1) The zone limits are set on case by case basis and there is no standard specified limit to it.
2) All activities are banned in the eco-sensitive zone.


a. Only 1
b. Only 2
c. Both 1 and 2
d. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer  Explanation 

ANSWER: Only 1

Explanation:
The width of the ESZ and type of regulation may vary from protected area to area. However, as a general principle, the width of the ESZ could go up to 10 kms around the protected area.

The purpose of declaring an Eco-Sensitive Zone is to create a buffer zone, where activities will be regulated to protect areas demarcated as Protected Areas.

The ESZ guidelines include a broad list of activities that could be allowed, promoted, regulated or promoted. This is an important checklist for conservationists to keep in mind while identifying threats in ESZs.