Bombay HC Directs Tiger Reserve in Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

Introduction:

• The Bombay High Court in Goa has ordered the establishment of a tiger reserve within the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, following a recommendation by the National Tiger Conservation Authority.

1. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary Overview
2. Location and Establishment

– Western Ghats, designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1999.

– Spans Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.

1. Ecological Significance
2. Area and UNESCO Listing

– Covers approximately 208.5 sq. km in the Sahyadri mountain range.

– Part of UNESCO’s World Heritage-listed Sahyadri mountain range.

III. Flora and Fauna

1. Rich Plant Diversity

– Abundance of medicinal and endemic plants.

1. Diverse Wildlife

– Home to Tigers, Indian gaur, leopards, deer species, reptiles, amphibians, and various birds.

1. Conservation Importance
2. Protecting Endangered Species

– Crucial for conserving endangered species.

1. Biodiversity in Western Ghats

– Maintains biodiversity in the Western Ghats region.

1. Genetic Diversity

– Promotes genetic diversity through wildlife corridors.

1. Ongoing Legal Dispute
2. Mhadei/Mahadayi River Water Diversion

– Disagreement between Goa and Karnataka.

1. Concerns for Sanctuary Ecology

– Worries about impact on sanctuary’s ecology.

Conclusion:

• The directive from the Bombay High Court is a pivotal step in preserving the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary’s ecological integrity. Spanning across the Western Ghats, this sanctuary holds immense biodiversity significance. The establishment of a tiger reserve underscores its commitment to conservation. However, the ongoing legal dispute over river water diversion highlights the need for continued vigilance in safeguarding this natural treasure.