Illegal Construction Near Sultanpur National Park | 17 Dec 2024

Why in News? 

Recently, The Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of Forest and Wildlife directed the district administration to submit a report to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF & CC) regarding illegal constructions near Sultanpur National Park and their current status. 

 Key Points 

  • Committee to Monitor Illegal Construction: 
    • In March 2024, a committee was formed to monitor illegal construction activities in the restricted zone surrounding the national park. 
    • It was found that several illegal colonies are being developed in the Farukhnagar areas near Sultanpur National Park. 
      • Construction activities within the sensitive zones violate the provisions of the zonal master plan for eco- sensitive zones. 
  • Compliance with Regulations: 
    • Officials were instructed to ensure strict compliance with structural construction regulations in the areas surrounding the national park. 
    • Action should be taken against those who fail to comply with these regulations. 

 Sultanpur National Park  

  • About:  
    • Sultanpur National Park is a bird paradise for bird watchers. It is famous for its migratory as well as resident birds.  
      • Migratory birds start arriving in the park in September. Birds use the park as a resting place till the following March-April.  
      • During summer and monsoon months the park is inhabited by many local bird species.  
    • In April 1971, the Sultanpur Jheel inside the park (an area of 1.21 sq. Km.) was accorded Sanctuary status under section 8 of the Punjab Wildlife Preservation Act, 1959.  
    • The status of the park was upgraded to National Park under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 in July 1991.  
  • Location:  
    • It is situated in Gurgaon district of Haryana. The distance of the park is around 50 Km from Delhi and 15km from Gurgaon.  
  • Important Fauna at the Park: