Kaziranga National Park Prepares for Floods

Ensuring the Safety of Wild Animals

The Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam is ready to handle any situation during the flood season to protect the animals. The park has installed vehicular speed sensor cameras on National Highway 37 to control vehicle speed and prevent accidents involving wild animals.

Women Frontline Staff

About 150 women frontline staff are working alongside their male counterparts to protect the wildlife. Sonali Ghosh, the field director, mentioned that the park authorities have made all necessary preparations to ensure the safety of the animals during floods.

Flood Preparedness

Floods are crucial for Kaziranga’s landscape, but they also cause animals to migrate to higher grounds in Karbi Anglong. The park has nine designated corridors for animal crossings, with additional staff and technologies like speed sensor cameras to minimize road accidents. The frontline staff are engaged in anti-poaching activities and are equipped with boats, life jackets, and raincoats.

Community Involvement

Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma visited Kaziranga on June 15 and held a review meeting on flood preparedness. Awareness camps started in April to involve youths and the local community. The park also has flood volunteers who are trained to assist during floods.

Women Frontline Staff: ‘Vandurga’

Last year, the state government recruited over 2500 frontline staff, including 300 women. These women, named ‘Vandurga’ by the Prime Minister, are involved in various activities like anti-poaching, front duty, and eco-development works.

Committee for Erosion Assessment

A committee led by the PCCF and Chief Wildlife Warden, including experts and biologists, has been formed to assess erosion and recommend measures.