In a significant step towards environmental protection, the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has declared Namdapha National Park & Tiger Reserve and Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary & Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh as Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs). Located within the Changlang and Lohit districts, these reserves are renowned for their exceptional landscapes and rich biodiversity, making the ESZ designation a welcome development for conservation efforts.
The announcement was made by Chief Minister Pema Khandu on the microblogging platform X, where he expressed his enthusiasm for the move. He stated that the Ministry has officially designated Namdapha National Park & Tiger Reserve in Changlang district and Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary & Tiger Reserve in Lohit district as ESZs. He also highlighted that, as of February 2024, Pakke Tiger Reserve is set to be classified under the same ESZ category.
The Chief Minister emphasized that these designations will pave the way for focused conservation initiatives that are critical for protecting the rare flora and fauna of these regions and maintaining ecological sustainability. The ESZ status is designed to protect areas that might be vulnerable to climate change and human activities, particularly those situated near protected areas.
By acting as buffer zones, these eco-sensitive regions extend conservation efforts beyond the boundaries of the protected reserves, ensuring enhanced protection for the core habitats. Namdapha Tiger Reserve, initially classified as a reserve forest, was elevated to a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1972 under the Assam Forest Regulation. It was subsequently upgraded to a National Park in 1983 and later became a Tiger Reserve under the Project Tiger Scheme, solidifying its significance as a crucial conservation area in India. This reserve is home to numerous rare and endangered species, including the elusive clouded leopard and the red panda.
Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary, named after the Kamlang River that flows through it, is recognized for its diverse flora and fauna. It plays a crucial role in safeguarding species like the Hoolock gibbon and hornbills, making it a cornerstone for biodiversity conservation in the region.
The new ESZ designation will further enhance the protection of both reserves, promoting sustainable development while ensuring the conservation of these critical habitats. This step signifies the government’s commitment to safeguarding the environment and fostering a balanced ecosystem in Arunachal Pradesh and beyond.
