Bhubaneswar: As many as 28 water bodies have been dug inside the Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary to quench the thirst of wildlife, as informed by the Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram SinghKhuntia in the state assembly on Tuesday.
In a written response to a question from Jatani MLA Bibhuti Bhusan Balabantaray, Minister SinghKhuntia provided details about the measures taken to ensure adequate water supply for wildlife in the sanctuary.
He highlighted that three small irrigation projects—Kumarkhunti, Deras, and Jhumka—are operational within the sanctuary, providing year-round water access.
These irrigation facilities play a crucial role during the summer months, when wildlife depends on them for drinking water.
The Minister also informed the Assembly that water from the Mundali pipeline project is being stored in the 28 water bodies constructed within the sanctuary, further enhancing the water supply for wildlife.
In his statement, Minister SinghKhuntia emphasized the comprehensive measures undertaken by the government to safeguard wildlife in the region. These include:
- The government has deployed an Anti-Depredation Squad, which works in collaboration with forest officials to conduct round-the-clock patrols to protect the wildlife.
- A Fire Fighting Squad has been set up to respond to forest fires, ensuring the safety of the animals.
- In recent years, the government has focused on planting food trees for wildlife and restoring grazing lands to provide a better environment for the animals.
- Solar wire fences, stone walls, and ditches have been established along the forest boundaries to prevent encroachment and safeguard wildlife.
- The sanctuary is closely monitored through 19 observation domes, ensuring the safety and movement of animals are constantly observed.
- A state-of-the-art controlled room, equipped with iWLMS and OFMS portals, has been set up to supervise day-and-night patrols, placing a high priority on wildlife protection.
This multi-faceted approach underscores the Odisha government’s commitment to wildlife conservation in the Chandaka-Dampara Sanctuary.
