Pune: Renowned ecologist Madhav Gadgil (82) passed away at his residence here last night after a brief illness.

Madhav Gadgil was known for his work on the ecological significance of the Western Ghats, as the head of Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP), known as the Gadgil Commission. His report included recommendations for strict restrictions regarding areas categorised as highly sensitive. It had recommended that no new roads or building construction be allowed, no development on steep slopes and a ban on quarrying, among others.

In 2024, the United Nations (UN) had recognised him with the annual Champions of the Earth Award, the UN’s highest environmental honour, for his seminal work in the Western Ghats.

He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1981 and the Padma Bhushan in 2006. He was a former member of the Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India.

In his condolence message, Karnataka Minister for Forest and Environment Eshwar Khandre, said that he was deeply saddened to hear the news of the demise of Gadgil.