Tribal Housing Near Brahmagiri Sanctuary

February 13, 2025

The recent decision by the Karnataka state government to construct a village for tribal communities within the buffer zone of Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary has sparked debate. This initiative is intended to address the housing needs of over 570 tribal families. However, it raises critical concerns regarding the potential increase in human-wildlife conflicts and the safety of the tribal communities involved.

Background of Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka.
It spans approximately 181 square kilometres.
The sanctuary is named after Brahmagiri peak, which stands at 1607 metres.
The Lakshmana Tirtha River, a tributary of the Cauvery River, originates within this sanctuary.
The diverse terrain features undulating hills and steep valleys.

Flora and Fauna

The sanctuary is rich in biodiversity.
It hosts evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, grassland patches, and bamboo groves.
Notable wildlife includes the lion-tailed macaque, a rare and endangered species.
Other mammals such as tigers, elephants, and various deer species also inhabit the area.

Tribal Communities and Housing Issues

The tribal families, comprising four distinct tribes, have been seeking stable housing since their eviction from the Diddahalli forest in December 2016. Activists have criticised the government’s delayed response to their rehabilitation. The proposed construction site is only 100 metres from the sanctuary’s boundary, raising alarms about the safety of the tribes and the potential for increased wildlife encounters.

Government and Conservationist Perspectives

The government has allocated 20 acres for the Integrated Tribal Development Project. However, previous warnings from forestry officials brought into light the need for clearances from the buffer zone management committee. Conservationists argue that placing tribal housing within a wildlife habitat could exacerbate existing human-elephant conflicts in the region. They stress the importance of providing safe land for the tribes away from wildlife interactions.

Current Socio-Environmental Challenges

The situation presents a complex challenge. On one hand, there is an urgent need for housing for the displaced tribal families. On the other hand, the ecological integrity of the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary must be preserved. The government faces pressure to act swiftly while ensuring that any development does not compromise wildlife safety.

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