Bhubaneswar: The state government has established 214 Anti-Poaching Camps (APCs) and temporary platforms in the Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary to prevent poaching and other illegal encroachments.
This information was shared by the Minister of Forest, Environment and Climate Change Ganesh Ram SinghKhuntia in the state assembly on Tuesday.
As part of the efforts to combat poaching, 135 anti-poaching camps and temporary platforms have been set up in the Similipal South Wildlife Reserve, with an additional 79 in the Similipal North Wildlife Reserve.
He further stated that to enhance wildlife conservation efforts, the Odisha government has approved a new 10-year Tiger Conservation Plan for the Similipal Tiger Reserve, spanning from 2023-24 to 2032-33.
Recognizing the ecological significance of Similipal, the Odisha government has implemented a series of measures to safeguard its unique flora and fauna. Since 1973, Similipal has been part of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme-Project Tiger (CSS-PT), receiving continuous funding to improve its infrastructure.
To combat poaching and protect wildlife, advanced surveillance systems, including AI-powered cameras, infrared cameras, and trap cameras, have been installed. The Similipal Special Tiger Protection Force (SSTPF) has been deployed, along with permanent forest officials, security assistants, and retired army personnel.
Special vehicles have been provided for immediate reporting of poaching activities, and wireless stations have been set up for real-time data transmission. The creation of S-WIN (Similipal Wildlife Intelligence Network) will strengthen the monitoring of illegal wildlife trade.
To further enhance security, modern weapons such as INSAS rifles, X-caliber rifles, and automatic pistols have been introduced. In preparation for the summer months, fire lines are being constructed to prevent forest fires, and a specialized firefighting squad has been formed to handle emergencies.
The government has also implemented M-Stripes and Phase-IV tracking systems to monitor tiger movement and other wildlife. Extensive public awareness campaigns are being conducted to involve local communities in conservation efforts.
Efforts to improve wildlife habitats include grassland management, salt lick management, and the construction of water reservoirs to ensure that animals have access to adequate food and water. A rapid response team has been formed to assist distressed wildlife.
In a significant step, all villages within Similipal, except for Bakua village, have been relocated to provide more space for wildlife. Additionally, a tiger migration scheme is underway to introduce tigers from other states, boosting genetic diversity and increasing the tiger population in Similipal.
A Joint Task Force (JTF), composed of permanent forest and police personnel, has been established to further strengthen protection efforts. Over the past three years, authorities have registered 103 wildlife crime cases, arrested 255 poachers, and seized 57 firearms.
Through these comprehensive efforts, Odisha reaffirms its commitment to preserving the ecological integrity of the Similipal Tiger Reserve and ensuring the long-term survival of its diverse wildlife.
