Rocky plateaus are ecologically very important as they harbor special diversity and are part of catchments of major rivers of Maharashtra. Detailed studies on the components and fragility of rocky plateau ecosystems are sparse. Recently, the instances of these plateaus being subjected to various land use changes without detailed assessments, have affected the balance of the complex ecosystem and the services offered by them. Windfarm development is one major activity on the rocky plateaus for which little data is available on ecosystem level impacts.

Results of the present study describe the Chalkewadi plateau complex, Satara district and impacts on the plateau surface brought about by the development of a high-density windfarm. Broad observations were made on the changing land use, microhabitats and associated vegetation. Manual analysis of Google Earth images of the plateau was done to understand the nature and scale of the ground-level disturbance.

Results show that even though the actual area under windmill establishment is relatively smaller compared to the total plateau area, its environmental footprint is relatively large. The network of temporary and permanent roads, created to erect and operate the windfarm, has dissected the habitat and corridors of wildlife movement. An increase in road kill incidences was observed. Roads have also initiated erosional features all along the plateau surface. Disturbance due to windfarms is widespread on the plateau with the only exception being in the Reserve Forest area and disconnected smaller plateaus.

Our results complement conclusions from other studies regarding negative impacts of windfarms on birds and reptiles. Thus overall impact of windfarms, in terms of habitat destruction is significant and should be studied in depth before establishment of wind farms.

Establishment of windfarms on ecologically sensitive areas should be avoided as far as possible. However, we recommend good ecological management practices that could reduce the impacts, if wind farm establishment is inevitable. The recommendations can be applied to other plateaus in Sahyadri where windfarms are already in place