As discussed in the earlier post the problems that arise in tiger conservation are many. But one insurmountable problem that interferes with the management practices and is the cause of severe man-animal conflict is the excess population around the reserves.
Since the law prohibits human settlements within the core area of the reserve the impetus is on relocating them outside. Though in spite of a generous compensation package it is difficult to relocate people away from the critical tiger habitats.
As the tiger population grows more and more space will be required this will include the forest in the buffer. Unfortunately, the problem of settlements is further compounded in the buffer due to the absence of a law to relocate settlements further. Not only the absence of law there is an absolute lack of political will if contingency arises.
Coming back to the article read below briefs on lesser-known tiger reserves in India. The list also includes reserves that are least visited.
Melghat Tiger Reserve lies in the State of Maharashtra in the Satpura Ranges. With an area of over two thousand sq km, Melghat is home to a large population of bison and Central Indian mammals. Gugamal National Park with an area of 360 sq. km constitutes the core.
Buxa Tiger Reserve in West Bengal is a 760 sq km big cat heaven in India. It is home to Indian elephants besides tigers and other mammals. Bagdogra lies at a distance of 195 km.
Dudhwa Tiger Reserve bordering Nepal is in Uttar Pradesh. The preserve is home to a good number of tigers besides other mammals. The swamp deer in the Northern race is found here. The rhino relocation has been successful for many years. Dudhwa lies in the Lakhimpur Kheri district within a short distance from Palia City.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve lies in close proximity to Bhopal the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. Home to tigers, wolves and other mammals the reserve contains the finest stands of teak. Prehistoric Bhimbetika Caves lie within. Poaching and illicit felling are major causes of concern.
Sunbheda Tiger Reserve is situated in Odisha in Nuapada District. The 500 sq km preserve is home to Central Indian mammals like tigers, leopards, and sloth bears.
Bhadra Tiger Reserve is situated in Karnataka State near Chikkamagaluru District. It is home to tiger, lion-tailed macaque, slender loris, bonnet macaque, and wild elephants. Approximately 600 sq km in the area the reserve is 163 km from Mangalore.
More tiger reserves have been created and hopefully more will be notified in near future. This is essential if we wish to save the tiger from extinction as well as give new lease of life to myriads of life forms in India.
At present the non violate area in India is very small, barely one percent of the total land mass. Better management of our land will result in the preservation of niche habitats for other life forms and increase the protected area.
No comments:
Post a Comment