New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has imposed a ban on organizing the proposed ‘Walk with Wildlife’ program in the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary until further orders. The court directed the Forest Department to refrain from conducting the ‘Walk with Wildlife’ event, scheduled to take place within the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary in the southern ridge area at the end of this month. The program, including the ‘Walkathon’ planned for December 10, was associated with issues related to conservation and removal of encroachments.
Last week, a designated judicial officer raised concerns about conservation and encroachment removal in the protected area during a hearing on matters related to the event. Justice Jasmeet Singh had secured the issue for decision on Tuesday. He stated, “The opponents are restrained from organizing the proposed program until further orders.” Advocates Gautam Narayan and Aditya N Prasad had argued that no human activity should be allowed within Asola Bhatti as it is a protected area for wildlife, and the approval for organizing the event was granted without due consideration.
During the hearing, Justice Singh expressed concerns about the safety of people inside the sanctuary, mentioning the presence of around nine leopards, along with other animals like hyenas and jackals. The government counsel assured the court that the decision was made in compliance with the criteria and the purpose of the program was to familiarize people with the flora and fauna in the sanctuary.
The court’s decision to temporarily halt the program reflects a balance between environmental conservation and public safety concerns within the wildlife sanctuary. It highlights the need for thoughtful consideration and adherence to regulations when planning events in ecologically sensitive areas.
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