APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 16/11/2024

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (16-11-2024).

Topic: Balancing Development and Conservation in Protected Areas – The Case of Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

Question: Infrastructure development in ecologically sensitive areas often leads to a conflict between economic growth and biodiversity conservation. Discuss this statement in the context of the Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, highlighting the challenges and suggesting sustainable solutions to balance development with conservation efforts. (250 words)

Model Answer

Introduction:
Ecologically sensitive areas like the Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary in Assam are critical for biodiversity conservation. However, infrastructure projects such as railway electrification pose threats to their fragile ecosystems, highlighting the perennial conflict between development and conservation.

Body

Challenges of Development in Protected Areas

1. Habitat Fragmentation: Railway lines and roads dissect wildlife corridors, restricting animal movement.
2. Direct Threats to Species: Electrification of railway tracks risks electrocution of arboreal species like the hoolock gibbon.
3. Policy Oversight: Infrastructure projects are often cleared without comprehensive ecological impact assessments.
4. Community Exclusion: Lack of local stakeholder involvement in decision-making leads to inadequate mitigation measures.
5. Ecosystem Imbalance: Disruption of habitats impacts ecosystem services like carbon sequestration and water balance.

Sustainable Solutions

1. Alternate Routing: Reroute railway tracks to avoid passing through critical habitats.
2. Underground Cabling: Replace overhead electrification with underground systems to reduce risks to arboreal species.
3. Comprehensive Assessments: Mandate detailed environmental impact assessments (EIAs) before project approvals.
4. Eco-Friendly Infrastructure: Implement wildlife overpasses and underpasses to maintain connectivity.
5. Community Engagement: Involve local communities in conservation planning and decision-making.

Conclusion:
Development and conservation need not be mutually exclusive. With innovative planning, transparent governance, and community involvement, infrastructure projects like the one in Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary can achieve a balance, ensuring long-term biodiversity protection alongside economic growth.

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