Nepal’s Supreme Court has struck down a controversial law that allowed development in the country’s protected areas, including national parks and wildlife reserves, citing the need to protect biodiversity. The law, passed in 2020, had opened doors for infrastructure projects like roads and hotels in sensitive regions, arguing that it would drive economic growth. Environmental groups and conservationists celebrated the decision, which safeguards over 23% of Nepal’s land, home to iconic species like the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros. The ruling underscores Nepal’s commitment to preserving its rich natural heritage and biodiversity.
The ruling has broader implications for neighboring countries, especially those within the Himalayan region. Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas are not only critical to the country’s ecology but also contribute to regional environmental stability and tourism. With transboundary wildlife such as tigers and elephants moving across borders, preserving these habitats is vital for the entire region. The court’s decision sends a message to surrounding countries like India and Bhutan, which share similar conservation challenges, reinforcing the importance of protecting shared ecosystems. Nepal’s emphasis on conservation could also shape future environmental policy in South Asia, balancing development with sustainable practices to ensure long-term ecological and economic stability. More