The recent measures by the Karnataka government to regulate development within the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, along with the Centre's notification of a 308.2 square kilometer eco-sensitive zone around the sanctuary, are playing a crucial role in maintaining a substantial flow of water in the Mhadei river towards Goa. This was highlighted in a recent press release by district deputy commissioner Mohammed Roshan.
New Regulations for Villages
According to the deputy commissioner, special permission will now be mandatory for any work, commercial activity, or construction project in ten villages: Chikhale, Gavase, Chapoli, Aamgao, Gavali, Pastoli, Kabnali, Kongala, Nerse, and Shiroli. These regulations aim to protect the ecologically sensitive region and ensure the sustained water flow in the Mhadei river.
Relocation of Families
As part of conservation efforts, 25 families from Talewadi within the Bhimgad Sanctuary have already relocated from forest areas. Additionally, another 20 families have agreed to relocate, further reducing human impact on the sanctuary's ecosystem.
Background of Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary
In December 2011, Karnataka notified 190 square kilometers of ecologically rich forest as the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary. This forest is contiguous with the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary in Sattari and is globally renowned for its natural limestone caves, which serve as breeding sites for the endangered Wroughton's free-tailed bat. The sanctuary also functions as a vital tiger corridor in the Western Ghats, underscoring its ecological importance.
Kalasa-Bhandura Project Developments
After completing major work on the diversion of the Kalasa nullah at Kankumbi, Karnataka has decided to proceed with the diversion of the Bhandura nullah at Nerse. However, the National Board for Wildlife has deferred a decision on granting approval to the Kalasa-Bhandura project. Meanwhile, the regional empowered committee of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in Bengaluru has instructed Karnataka to submit a biodiversity conservation plan for the area where it proposes to divert 28 hectares of forest land for the Bhandura nullah diversion scheme.
Water Sources Sustaining the Mhadei
The Bhandura, Singur, Pat, Tirthachi Nhai, Kotni, and Pansheera nullahs, along with other perennial water sources, join the Mhadei river and help sustain its substantial flow. These tributaries are critical for maintaining the river's health and ensuring water availability for downstream regions, including Goa.
