Environmental tensions in Maharashtra have escalated as activist Bandu Dhotre’s hunger strike against the proposed Lohardongri iron mine project enters its third day. The mine, located in the Tadoba corridor connecting critical wildlife habitats, has drawn criticism from environmentalists.
Dhotre’s protest highlights government inaction on recommendations made by a 2021 committee aimed at reducing the tiger-human conflict in the region. Despite these recommendations being accepted by the State Wildlife Advisory Board, no subsequent action has been undertaken.
The hunger strike has garnered widespread environmentalist support, marking a significant pushback against developmental activities perceived to threaten ecological balance in the Chandrapur district.
(With inputs from agencies.)