Metro India News | new delhi

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) on Monday addressed key environmental concerns in Warangal, Telangana, raised by Dr. Kadiyam Kavya in Parliament.

Responding to her question on illegal sand mining along the Godavari riverbank, Union Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change Bhupender Yadav confirmed that a study on its ecological impact has been completed. He said the Centre is supporting states with policy and technology, referencing the Sustainable Sand Mining Management Guidelines (2016) and Enforcement & Monitoring Guidelines for Sand Mining (2020) to promote sustainable practices.

On afforestation, Yadav noted Telangana has not yet submitted its state plan under the Green India Mission (GIM), but projects are active in Warangal. To protect Pakhal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary from encroachments and pollution, the ministry highlighted several steps: retrieval of encroached land, prosecution under the Telangana Forest Act, tree planting in reclaimed areas, regular patrolling, anti-poaching awareness drives, and a strict ban on plastic in the eco-tourism zone. Additionally, water quality is monitored monthly under the National Water Monitoring Programme.

An Eco-Sensitive Zone has also been established around the sanctuary to regulate harmful activities. Rs. 274 lakhs have been allocated for eco-restoration works at Pakhal under the Harithanidhi scheme. Though the Centre issued eco-tourism guidelines in 2021 and provides funds under the ‘Development of Wildlife Habitats’ scheme, Telangana has not received eco-tourism funds over the past and current year. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to environmental protection and coordination with states to combat illegal sand mining and preserve biodiversity hotspots like Pakhal.