Figure 1. Location map of the Teesta Hydroelectric Project, Stage – V, Sikkim.

Figure 2. Location of sampling points in the study area.

Figure 3. Location of the mammalian evidences in the Project area of Teesta Hydroelectric Project, Stage – V, Sikkim.

Figure 4. Potential environmental impacts of a Hydroelectric Power Project.

Plate 1. Dam site location and land use in submergence zone.

Plate 2. Power house location and downstream stretches of the River Teesta.

Plate 3. Wildlife sightings during field survey provided reliable information of the wildlife status of the project area.

Plate 4. Indirect evidences of wildlife were also useful in developing ecological baseline of the project area.

Plate 5. Riparian stretches along the Teesta River are excellent habitats for aquatic species where otters can be frequently sighted.

Plate 6. Dense vegetation along the river and on slopes support arboreal mammals and diverse avifauna.

Plate 7.Access roads to the project site are likely to further increase resource extraction, soil erosion and animal mortality and thereby threaten the biodiversity of the region.

Plate 8. Representative butterfly species encountered in Project area during the ecological survey.