Bhubaneswar: The Satkosia Tiger Reserve, currently devoid of tigers, will soon welcome 12-14 new big cats under the National Tiger Conservation Authority’s (NTCA) Tiger Recovery Plan.
According to Susanta Nanda, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), the project is expected to be fully operational within a five-year timeframe.
Notably, Satkosia had 13-15 tigers in 2007 but has since lost its tiger population. The NTCA’s plan involves reintroducing tigers to restore the ecosystem.
“Back in 2007, we had 13-15 tigers in Satkosia. Now, we are planning a Tiger Recovery Plan under which 12-14 tigers will be brought to Satkosia. The Tiger Recovery Plan will help revive the tiger population in Satkosia” said Nanda.
Meanwhile, the tiger reserve has introduced 12 specially designed patrolling vans. Equipped with modern facilities like GPS navigation, movable searchlights, and winches for rescue operations, these vans will help protect endangered species and their habitats.
As per reports, the customized vehicles are camouflaged to evade detection by poachers and modified for navigating steep ghat roads and muddy terrain. They also feature seating with hoods for maximum staff accommodation.
To be deployed in sensitive areas, the vans will be utilized by the tiger protection force, joint task force, and frontline staff. Additionally, similar vehicles have been launched for Kapilash Wildlife Sanctuary, Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chandaka.
According to the PCCF, these patrolling vans will play a vital role in protecting flora, fauna, and biodiversity in these reserves empowering forest officials to better safeguard wildlife.
