In a significant development for wildlife conservation in Chhattisgarh, the Bhoramdev Sanctuary is on the verge of being declared a Tiger Reserve, marking a crucial step forward in preserving the region’s biodiversity. This decision follows years of effort by Raipur MP Brijmohan Agarwal, whose consistent advocacy has highlighted the sanctuary’s importance as a key ecological site. On his initiative, Union Forest and Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav, through the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), has instructed the Chhattisgarh government to expedite the proposal’s approval.
The journey to achieve this milestone began with MP Agarwal’s persistent communication with the Union Forest Ministry, emphasizing the sanctuary’s strategic importance. Bhoramdev Sanctuary, located near the buffer zone of the Kanha Tiger Reserve, serves as a vital habitat for various wildlife species, including tigers. In response to Agarwal’s appeal, the NTCA first recommended designating the area as a tiger reserve on July 28, 2014. The Chhattisgarh State Wildlife Board also supported this proposal.
With the latest directive from the NTCA to the Chhattisgarh government, the process of converting Bhoramdev Sanctuary into a Tiger Reserve is in its final phase. Once approved, the newly designated Bhoramdev Tiger Reserve will play a critical role in strengthening the Kanha-Achanakmar corridor, facilitating the safe movement of tigers and other wildlife across the region. This corridor is essential for maintaining genetic diversity among tiger populations and ensuring their long-term survival.
In addition to its role in conservation, the new reserve will also safeguard several other endangered species, including the Barasingha, a rare species of swamp deer that is facing extinction. The designation of Bhoramdev as a Tiger Reserve will further reinforce the area’s ecological significance, enhancing its role in protecting these vulnerable species.
MP Brijmohan Agarwal expressed his enthusiasm about the impending decision, stating that granting Tiger Reserve status to Bhoramdev Sanctuary will not only bolster wildlife conservation efforts but also spur tourism and economic development. “The creation of the Bhoramdev Tiger Reserve will attract more visitors, generating employment opportunities and contributing to the state’s revenue growth. This will provide a substantial economic boost to the local communities, enhancing their livelihoods while preserving the region’s natural heritage,” he said.
As Chhattisgarh moves closer to achieving this historic designation, the Bhoramdev Tiger Reserve promises to become a vital asset for both conservation and tourism, ensuring a sustainable future for the state’s wildlife and its people.
