Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
Recently, the Goa bench of the Bombay High Court instructed the Goa government to declare the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary and other regions mentioned in the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) communications and plans prepared by the Goa forest department as a tiger reserve under the Wildlife Protection Act within a period of three months.
About the Sanctuary
Located in the Indian state of Goa, the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature lover’s paradise, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Spanning over an area of 208.5 square kilometers, this sanctuary is a precious gem in the Western Ghats of South India. It is situated in North Goa District, Sattari taluka, near the town of Valpoi. With its diverse range of flora and fauna, the sanctuary has gained recognition for its ecological significance.
Biodiversity and Geography
The sanctuary is nestled within the Western Ghats, an ecologically sensitive region. It is characterized by elevations ranging from 200 meters in the west to 560 meters in the center, encompassing the majestic Vagheri Hills, including Vagheri peak at an elevation of 560 meters – the highest point in North Goa. These hills are a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife species, and the sanctuary’s unique discovery of a flowing lake or waterbody shaped like the map of India adds to its charm.
The Mhadei River, also known as the Mandovi River downstream, flows through the sanctuary, playing a crucial role as the lifeline of Goa. Originating in Karnataka, it travels through 9.4 kilometers of the sanctuary’s territory before meeting the Arabian Sea at Panaji after a total journey of 81.2 kilometers in Goa.
Potential Tiger Reserve Status
The sanctuary’s incredible biodiversity and the presence of Bengal tigers have prompted considerations to designate Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as a Project Tiger reserve. The Bombay High Court directed the Goa government to notify the sanctuary and certain contiguous areas as a tiger reserve under the Wildlife Protection Act. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has been actively pushing for the creation of this reserve to safeguard the resident tiger population.
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Month: Current Affairs - July, 2023
Category: Places in News Current Affairs
Dr.Cajetan Coelho
July 27, 2023 at 12:59 pmProtecting, defending, and saving Goa Tigers and their habitat is a long felt need. Sitting Goa MLA’s from Mandrem, Pernem, Thivim, Dicholi, Sankhli, Valpoi, Sattari, Sanguem, Sanvordem, Curchorem, and Kankon need to roar in unison to save the Goan tiger’s habitat.