This is not about reducing the existing zone. Until the state government notifies the Eco-Sensitive Zone, the 10-kilometre provision will continue to apply,” CM Sarma said. Explaining the process for finalising an ESZ, CM Sarma said the state Forest Department would first prepare the proposal. The Chief Minister said there was no universal requirement for every protected area to have a 10-km ESZ. CM Sarma reiterated that the existing 10-km provision around Kaziranga would remain in force until the state government issues its formal notification, after which the notified distance would become applicable.