Jalpaiguri: Concerns are rising among tourism stakeholders over the future of the ‘Bhorer Alo’ Tourism Hub, as the Pakhibitan Wildlife Sanctuary in Gajoldoba may soon be declared an eco-sensitive zone (ESZ). The development follows a Supreme Court directive mandating a one-kilometre ESZ around all protected wildlife areas to curb unregulated construction and safeguard biodiversity.
While the Pakhibitan sanctuary land was only recently handed over to the Forest department, rapid tourism development—both government and private—has already taken place in the surrounding areas. If the ESZ tag is applied, key infrastructure within the ‘Bhorer Alo’ zone may face restrictions.
Sabyasachi Roy, advisor to the Jalpaiguri District Tour Operators’ Welfare Association, voiced concerns: “Eco-sensitive zones have already been declared around Gorumara, Mahananda and Chapramari. Compared to Mahananda, the ESZ around Gorumara includes more resorts and construction. We’re closely watching what action the Gorumara ESZ monitoring committee takes regarding Pakhibitan.”
He added: “No development is permitted in an ESZ. The administration must clarify how resorts, cottages and other services will function. Without clear guidelines, tourism businesses may face serious setbacks.” Locals worry that the tourism-dependent economy could be hit hard. Nimai Mondal, spokesperson for the Boat Ride Management Committee, warned of economic consequences. “If Pakhibitan is declared an ESZ like Mahananda and Gorumara, everything—from local food stalls to our boat rides—will suffer. Reduced tourist footfall will hurt the livelihoods of hundreds of families,” he said.
Tourists, too, are concerned. Tourist Sheetal Basu from Bolpur echoed the concern: “Bhorer Alo has become a popular destination. If eco-sensitive restrictions start affecting such places, it’s hard to imagine what tourists will go through.”
As discussions continue, all eyes remain on the decisions of the Gorumara ESZ monitoring committee and the Jalpaiguri district administration. The region now faces the critical challenge of balancing environmental preservation with the economic aspirations of its growing tourism industry.