India, July 19 -- The state forest department has proposed declaring more than 1,835 hectares of ecologically sensitive land across 20 locations as conservation reserves in a move aimed at strengthening protection for Maharashtra's rich flora and fauna. However, several of the proposals have run into resistance over concerns ranging from infrastructure projects and tourism to real estate development.

The proposed conservation reserves are spread across Gaganbawda, Ajara-Bhudargad, Taharabad, Velhe-Mulshi, Naneghat, Bhorgirigad, Dindori, Surgana, Kareghat, Chinchpada, Alibag, Ghera-Manikgad, Rajmachi, Lonavala, Gumtara, Jawhar, Dhamani, Asherigad, Ekara and DPS Lake in Navi Mumbai.

While national parks and wildlife sanctuaries enjoy the ...