Rajiv Gandhi (Nagarhole) National Park

back

Environmental Review of Activities Undertaken for Habitat Improvement and Management under IEP in Rajiv Gandhi (Nagarhole) National Park

S.No. Project Activity PA & Local Benefits Impact Mitigation Measures/ Recommendations
1 Weed clearing Eupatorium sp.
  • Restoration of habitat
     
  • Better habitat utilization by wildlife
  • Chances of greater dispersal if weeding not properly timed
     
  • Some erosion of soil inevitable
  • Repeated clearing for eradication
     
  • Restoration of cleared area by planting sp. of herbs/shrubs
2 Fire protection works (maintenance of fire line and construction of watch tower)
  • Critical, as the area is fire prone deciduous forest. (A major fire already devasted the forested habitat in year 1992)
     
  • Reduced impacts of migration of animals from fire affected areas to adjacent areas
     
  • Employment generation for local people
  • Minimal impact on ground flora and fauna during clearing for fire line maintenance
     
  • Some alteration in aesthetics by erection of physical structures of considerable height
     
  • Temporary disturbance during working
  • Regular maintenance and clearing of fire lines
     
  • Preparedness for handling major fire
     
  • Mapping of fire affected areas for systematic restoration for long term habitat improvement & management
3 Elephant proof trenches (2 - 2½ m deep and 2 m wide) (Nearly covers the entire periphery of the PA and residential areas)
  • Staff protection
     
  • Prevent crop damage and human-animal conflict
  • Involves soil work
     
  • Fallen trees & logs liable to fill up the trench at places and subsequently break continuity (This has happened in a few places in PTR)

    Discontinuity may be dangerous as channels of entry into habitation areas

    Trenching in rocky areas may be difficult
  • Regular maintenance
     
  • Power fencing is a good option for such rocky stretches
4 Road improvement work (28 km)
  • Better mobility for patrolling, protection and tourism

    Improved access
  • Minor repair works with minimal impact
  • Limiting upgradation works to dry season would reduce impacts
5 Erection of solar fencing
  • Animal damage control and control of wild animals straying out
     
  • Fairly durable (working for last 5 years)
     
  • Maintenance feasible due to proximity to jeepable road
  • Could be tampered by miscreants
  • Maintenance for efficacy and vigil to prevent tampering
6 Soil working around bamboo
  • Employment opportunity to benefit local labour
  • Standard forestry practice for protection of growing bamboo
  

Last Updated: February 7, 2013