The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has expressed serious concerns over the Morand-Ganjal Irrigation Project in Madhya Pradesh, citing its potential impact on vital tiger habitats. The proposed project threatens ecological corridors that connect the Satpura and Melghat Tiger Reserves, crucial for tiger movement and genetic diversity. The NTCA has urged authorities to explore alternative locations to balance development with conservation.
Project Overview
The Morand-Ganjal Irrigation Project aims to improve irrigation facilities across 211 villages in the districts of Hoshangabad, Betul, Harda, and Khandwa. Initially proposed in 1972, the project received government approval in 2017. It involves constructing dams on the Morand and Ganjal rivers, which will lead to the submergence of over 2,250 hectares of forest land.
Impact on Tiger Habitats
The NTCA’s evaluation highlights the ecological sensitivity of the project site, which serves as a critical tiger-occupied habitat. The submergence of forest areas will disrupt essential wildlife corridors, hindering the natural movement of tigers between the Satpura and Melghat Tiger Reserves. This loss of connectivity poses a significant risk to genetic exchange and population stability, potentially leading to long-term adverse effects on tiger conservation.
Threat to Tiger Recovery Efforts
Both Satpura and Melghat Tiger Reserves have been witnessing a gradual recovery of tiger populations, largely due to successful voluntary village relocations aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflict. The NTCA warns that fragmentation of the habitat caused by the irrigation project could reverse these conservation gains.
Socio-Economic and Environmental Concerns
Beyond its impact on wildlife, the project is set to displace over 600 members of the indigenous Korku tribal community, leading to loss of livelihood and cultural displacement. The submerged areas are not only critical for tiger conservation but also support diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the region’s overall biodiversity.
NTCA’s Recommendations
The NTCA has strongly recommended that authorities consider alternative sites for the project that are less ecologically sensitive. It emphasizes the need for a development model that prioritizes biodiversity conservation while addressing irrigation needs. Sustainable solutions should be explored to ensure that progress does not come at the cost of India’s wildlife heritage.
Summing Up
As India continues to balance development and environmental conservation, projects like the Morand-Ganjal Irrigation initiative highlight the challenges in preserving tiger habitats while meeting agricultural needs. The government’s decision on this matter will be crucial in determining the future of wildlife conservation efforts in the region.