Tiger Population Decline Sparks Action
Chhattisgarh, facing a precipitous decline in its tiger population, has taken decisive action to protect the endangered species. The state government has officially approved the creation of the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve, a vast expanse encompassing 2,829 square kilometers across four northern districts. This landmark decision comes in response to alarming reports from the National Tiger Conservation Authority, which revealed a stark decrease in the state’s tiger numbers from 46 in 2014 to a mere 17 in 2022.
New Reserve: A Beacon of Hope for Tigers
The newly established Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve is not only Chhattisgarh’s fourth dedicated sanctuary for these majestic creatures but also the third largest in the entire country. This significant development represents a concerted effort to reverse the alarming trend of tiger population decline and safeguard the future of this iconic species.
Court Intervention and Public Interest
The decision to establish the reserve was expedited by a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the Chhattisgarh High Court in 2019 by wildlife activist Ajay Dubey. The PIL highlighted the government’s inaction in notifying the reserve since 2012, despite approvals from both the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Union Environment Ministry. The court’s intervention played a crucial role in pushing for the creation of this vital conservation area.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
Beyond its ecological significance, the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve is expected to yield substantial economic and environmental benefits. The government anticipates that the reserve will become a hub for eco-tourism, generating employment opportunities for local communities. Villagers residing in the core and buffer zones will have the chance to work as guides, tourist vehicle operators, and resort managers. Moreover, the National Project Tiger Authority will allocate additional funds to support the reserve’s operations, which will, in turn, facilitate new livelihood development projects in the surrounding villages.
Key Learnings
| Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Tiger Population Decline | Chhattisgarh’s tiger population has significantly decreased from 46 in 2014 to 17 in 2022. |
| New Tiger Reserve | The Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve is the third largest in India and the fourth in Chhattisgarh. |
| Court Intervention | A PIL filed in 2019 expedited the establishment of the reserve. |
| Economic and Environmental Benefits | The reserve is expected to boost eco-tourism and create employment opportunities for local communities. |
Summary
Chhattisgarh’s establishment of the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve is a significant step in addressing the state’s declining tiger population. This vast sanctuary, the third largest in India, represents a concerted effort to conserve this endangered species. The reserve is also expected to bring economic and environmental benefits to local communities.
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
