Curbs imposed on temple jathra in Bandipur

Sub : Env

Sec: Protected Areas

Context:

The annual jathra of Beladakuppe Sri Mahadeshwaraswamy Temple, located in the core area of Bandipur Tiger Reserve, will face several restrictions this year to minimize the impact on the wildlife habitat.

Measures Imposed by the Forest Department:

Transportation:
- Private vehicles are banned from entering the tiger reserve, a rule in effect for a few years.
- KSRTC buses will ferry devotees from the outskirts of the forest to the temple and back.
Security:
- Adequate deployment of Forest Department staff and security personnel to ensure compliance with laws.

Concerns of Conservationists:

The core critical area of the tiger reserve faces disturbances due to:
- Movement of tens of thousands of people.
- Past activities such as temporary kiosks, stalls, loudspeakers, and lighting, though most of these have been banned.
Impact on Wildlife: Wildlife habitats are disrupted, causing significant stress to the ecosystem.
Relocation Proposal:
- The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has recommended relocating the temple to mitigate disturbances. However, implementation has been stalled due to political resistance.

Bandipur Tiger Reserve:

Bandipur National Park is a national park covering 868.63 km2 (335.38 sq mi) in Chamarajnagar district in the Indian state of Karnataka.
- Location: Situated in the Western Ghats, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, and adjacent to other key reserves like Nagarahole, Wayanad, and Mudumalai.
It was established as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 1973.
It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve since 1986.

Flora and Fauna:

Wildlife:
- Home to flagship species such as Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, and leopards.
- Other species include gaurs, chitals, sloth bears, and various bird species.
Vegetation:
- Comprises dry deciduous forests, moist deciduous forests, and shrublands, supporting diverse biodiversity.

Source: TH