Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam has received approval for boundary rationalisation under the National Board for Wildlife. The move follows a Supreme Court direction and aims to improve ecological connectivity, protect wetlands and water channels, and reduce conflicts linked to human settlements and private lands within the existing notified area.
Approved Boundary Changes
The proposal provides for exclusion of 470.67 hectares and inclusion of 564.83 hectares in Morigaon district. As a result, the total sanctuary area is expected to rise from 3,880.61 hectares to 3,978.29 hectares. The newly included land is intended to strengthen wildlife movement between important blocks of the sanctuary.
Ecological Rationale
A detailed review found that the 1998 boundary notification was ecologically weak. It did not adequately connect water channels or support viable wildlife corridors. Blocked channels and shrinking wetlands have affected habitat conditions, especially for the one-horned rhinoceros, which is a key species in Pobitora. The rationalisation is intended to restore hydrological flow and secure critical wetland systems.
Human Settlements and Land Issues
The notified boundary includes dense settlements and private patta lands. Around 265 patta holders occupy about 173 hectares. Encroachments and disputes between local communities and sanctuary management have also been reported. The Board has stressed that permanent human settlements and private lands should be excluded wherever possible from the rationalised boundary.
Next Steps and ESZ Plan
The Assam government has been asked to submit a draft Ecologically Sensitive Zone plan for Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. The ESZ will regulate development activities around the sanctuary. Before formal notification of the revised boundary, the state must obtain consent from all private landowners in line with the Land Acquisition Act, 2013.
Last Modified: April 29, 2026