A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the High Court has revealed widespread illegal construction of hotels, resorts and farmhouses in and around the eco-sensitive zone of Gir National Park. Affidavits submitted by the collectors of Junagadh, Gir Somnath and Amreli show that 387 of 501 tourism units inspected were operating illegally, raising serious concerns over enforcement in the region.
According to the reports, only 113 units were found to be fully compliant with legal requirements, while the remaining units were allegedly functioning without the required permissions from the forest department or local authorities.
The issue came to light after the High Court sought a detailed report on illegal tourism-related constructions in the Gir eco-sensitive zone. While notices have been issued to several operators, questions have been raised over why such large-scale violations were allowed to continue.
The court also questioned the district administrations over how commercial establishments were permitted to operate without mandatory No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the forest department.
District-wise findings
- Gir Somnath: Of 308 units inspected, 221 were found illegal and only 87 were compliant. Notices were issued to 191 units, action was taken against 28, and 10 were sealed. Authorities also found 127 residential houses being used for commercial lodging.
- Junagadh: Out of 164 units, only 23 were legal, while 141 were found violating rules, including illegal construction and land-use violations.
- Amreli: Of 29 units inspected, only three were legal, one was closed and 25 were operating illegally.
The PIL has also alleged that many resorts are linked to influential individuals, including political figures, although these allegations have not been established in court.
Environmentalists have long warned that illegal commercial development in the Gir eco-sensitive zone could disrupt wildlife corridors and increase human-lion conflict by restricting the natural movement of Asiatic lions. The High Court has sought further reports, with the next hearing scheduled for July 22.