In the lush high ranges of Pathanamthitta, a quiet unease is spreading. The Centre’s latest draft notification on Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) has just landed, and it’s stirring more than ecological debate—it’s lighting a political fuse.

Key facts

  • Seven villages across Konni and Ranni taluks are now under ESA red zone status.
  • Restrictions may affect farming, construction, and use of chemicals on sloped land.
  • Political parties LDF and Kerala Congress (M) are rallying against the notification.

What the notification means for villagers

The draft brings seven villages—Chittar, Seethathode, Aruvappulam, Thannithode, Vadasserikkara, Perunad, and Kollamula—under the ESA framework. All are marked red zones, meaning the strictest rules apply. Orange and yellow zones face lighter, but still significant, limits.

For generations, settler farmers here have carved lives out of these hills. Now, they worry about their futures. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides could be restricted. Tree felling and farming on slopes steeper than 30% may be regulated. Even building a home could require approval from a new environmental authority led by the Forest Department.

Political players seize the moment

The Left Democratic Front isn’t watching from the sidelines. They’re turning local anxiety into a political rallying cry. CPI(M) district secretary Raju Abraham didn’t mince words: “Farmers are now worried that they may have to stop farming if the draft notification is finalised.”

“Forest department clearances are already being delayed. Eventually, nobody may even be willing to buy land in these areas,” he added.

But it’s not just the left. The Kerala Congress (M), long a voice for settler communities, is also pushing back. Party chairperson Jose K. Mani pointed to history—a previous LDF government had proposed reducing ESA villages to 92 after his party’s urging. He argues Kerala’s dense population and limited land need a softer approach.

A fight over land and identity

At its heart, this is about more than rules—it’s about belonging. These communities have been here for decades. They’ve built homes, farms, even hydroelectric projects. Now they’re being told their way of life might need to change.

With the state’s forests covering 54% of its land, the balance between conservation and community has never been more delicate. And in Pathanamthitta, that balance is now tipping into the political arena.