Pune: NGT Prioritises Protection of Fireflies and Habitat in Kalsubai-Harishchandragad Sanctuary
Pune: NGT Prioritises Protection of Fireflies and Habitat in Kalsubai-Harishchandragad Sanctuary
PUNE: The western zone bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Pune has directed authorities to prioritise the protection of fireflies and their delicate habitat in and around the Kalsubai-Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary. The directive came on July 9 in response to a petition filed by a local resident.
The tribunal, while disposing of the case, emphasised that safeguarding the fireflies’ ecosystem should remain a key ecological and administrative concern. The order was based on recommendations from the forest department and Maharashtra Tourism Directorate, both of which raised alarms over unregulated tourism during the annual fireflies season from mid-May to mid-June.
The region hosts the popular ‘Kajawa Mahotsav,’ an enchanting festival celebrated just before the monsoon. Thousands of bioluminescent fireflies illuminate the forests and valleys, attracting tourists for camping, trekking, and cultural performances.
However, the festival recently came under NGT scrutiny following a complaint by local resident Borhade, who raised concerns about the impact of unregulated tourism on biodiversity. Responding to an earlier hearing on April 17, the forest department submitted an affidavit outlining steps being taken to address these concerns with support from eco-development committees.
The NGT has now made it clear that balancing tourism and ecological preservation in the sanctuary is imperative.
