BHOPAL : The forest department said that Kaliasot Dam and its nearby areas are ancient habitat of tigers. The population of big cats has increased from six to 28 in this area since 2006. The central zone bench of National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken cognizance on movement of the tigers, near the city. NGT had asked Forest Department on November 4 to submit its reply on why tiger movement is increasing and what steps have been taken by the department to keep the tigers away.
The counsel for the forest department, Sachin Verma submitted an affidavit stating that more manpower is being deployed near Kaliasot Dam to monitor the tigers’ movement, cameras are being installed and five vehicles with sophisticated equipments are cautioning the public to remain alert.
In its affidavit submitted to NGT, the state government has mentioned that a high-level committee of two experts has been formed to study the numbers of Big Cats in Sanctuary. The committee will suggest on how to reduce man-animal conflict.
The forest department said that the area of Ratapani Sanctuary sprawls in an area of about 900 sq. km, and about 300 sq. km of Bhopal and Sehore Forest Land. The sanctuary area is now interspersed by 32 villages, four large water bodies and two National Highways. Department will relocate 21 villages from the forest land. Next hearing is on December, 14.