The Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has recently designated Namdapha National Park & Tiger Reserve and Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary & Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh as Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ). These areas in the Changlang and Lohit districts are now receiving enhanced protection to boost conservation efforts. This new status aims to safeguard these reserves' unique landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu has also announced that Pakke Tiger Reserve will soon be included in the same ESZ category. In a social media post, he mentioned that the designation is crucial for conserving rare plant and animal species while ensuring the sustainability of ecosystems.
An Eco-Sensitive Zone serves as a protective buffer around national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. It helps prevent harmful human activities, like deforestation or construction, from damaging the core areas of the reserves.
Namdapha National Park & Tiger Reserve is one of India’s most biodiverse areas, known for its dense forests, landscapes, and rare wildlife. Spanning over 1,900 square kilometres, it is home to many animals, including tigers, leopards, snow leopards, and even clouded leopards. The park also boasts many plant species unique to the region. With its designation as an ESZ, Namdapha is set to receive even more attention for its conservation, ensuring that this ecological treasure continues to thrive for future generations.
Besides, the park covers a vast expanse of varying altitudes, from tropical rainforests to alpine meadows, making it home to diverse ecosystems. The park is also known for its rich birdlife, including rare species like the white-bellied heron and Blyth’s tragopan. In addition, Namdapha is inhabited by indigenous communities whose cultural practices are closely linked to the forest.
(With inputs from multiple reports)