In a landmark move that bolsters tiger conservation efforts, the Goa bench of the Bombay High Court has directed the Goa government to declare the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary and its surrounding areas as a tiger reserve. This decision, which needs to be implemented within three months from 24th July 2023, comes in the aftermath of a lengthy legal conflict and persistent representations from environmentalists and conservationists. Its implications span wildlife protection and forest inhabitants in the region.
According to the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972’s Section 38V, State Governments notify Tiger Reserves on the recommendation of the National Tiger Conservation Authority.
Key Facts about Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled in the Northern part of Goa, Sanguem taluka, near Valpoi town, the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is home to breathtaking waterfalls like Vazra Sakla Falls and Virdi Falls. The sanctuary is also renowned for its endangered Long-billed vultures’ nesting grounds near Vazra Falls and its diverse landscape comprising dense moist deciduous forests and some evergreen species. It is lauded for its sacred groves that preserve rare and indigenous trees.
Flora and Fauna at Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary boasts a rich biodiversity that includes Indian gaur, Tigers, Barking deer, Sambar deer, Wild boar, Indian hare, and more. It draws herpetologists due to the presence of various snake species, including the ‘big four’ venomous snakes: Indian krait, Russell’s viper, Saw-scaled viper, and Spectacled cobra. As an International Bird Area, it hosts bird species like the Malabar parakeet and Rufous babbler, making it an essential habitat for tiger conservation in Goa.
Unique Geographical Features of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary houses Goa’s three highest peaks: Sonsogod (1027 mts), Talavche Sada (812 mts), and Vageri (725 mts). The Mhadei River, a lifeline of Goa, originates in Karnataka, meanders through the sanctuary, and meets the Arabian Sea at Panaji. This sanctuary also serves as a catchment area for the Mhadei River.
Examination Questions From UPSC Civil Services Examination
In the 2012 UPSC Civil Services Examination, a question was asked regarding protected areas declared as Tiger Reserves. The options given were Bandipur, Bhitarkanika, Manas, and Sunderbans. The correct answer was ‘1, 3, and 4’ as Bhitarkanika has not been declared as a Tiger Reserve.
In the 2017 examination, a question was based on the ecological significance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats. Candidates had to choose between Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, Nallamala Forest, Nagarhole National Park, and Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve. The correct answer was Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve as it forms a significant wildlife corridor in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve between the Western Ghats and the rest of the Eastern Ghats.
