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Tourism

Odisha's Tiger Reserves at Risk: Expert Warns of Tourism-Induced Disaster

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Wildlife experts and conservationists are raising concerns about an ambitious tourism project that could threaten the very existence of Odisha's famed tiger reserves. A recent government document reveals plans to develop tourism near tiger sanctuaries and national parks, sparking fears of uncontrolled tourism and potential big cat extinctions. The tourism department's plans, shared with the forest and other departments on June 6, could potentially undermine the Forest Conservation Act of 1980 and the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, which safeguard the state's forests.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Odisha government plans to develop tourism near tiger sanctuaries and national parks, despite warnings from wildlife experts and conservationists.
  • The Forest Department is concerned that the tourism department's plans will lead to uncontrolled tourism and potential big cat extinctions.
  • The Tiger Task Force (TTF) in 2005 recommended that tourism regulation and management in tiger reserves remain with the forest department, with eco-tourism run by communities.
  • Anup Nayak, former member secretary of the National Tiger Conservation Authority, warns that allowing private hoteliers to set up hospitality industries in sensitive zones will invite "doomsday for wildlife."
  • Biswajit Mohanty, a conservationist, argues that the tourism department's intentions are clear and will lead to the destruction of the forest and the livelihoods of rural communities that depend on the forest for 83% of their livelihoods.

Statistics:

  • 83% of Odisha's rural population and 22% of the tribal population depend on the forest for their livelihoods.
  • The state has only 5% of its total geographical area designated as sanctuaries, reserves, and national parks.
  • According to the Forest Department, the chief secretary will move the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFC) to obtain permission for the use of forest land for non-site-specific purposes.

Sources:

  • "TOI has a copy" of the government document shared with the forest and other departments on June 6.
  • Anup Nayak, former member secretary, National Tiger Conservation Authority.
  • Biswajit Mohanty, conservationist.

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