Sikkim villagers turn mountain guardians
Jan 2, 2007 - 8:45:21 AM
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Unregulated grazing, hunting, trapping of wild animals and unplanned tourism are some of the threats to the eco-system.
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By IANS,
[RxPG] Gangtok, Jan 2 - A group of villagers in Sikkim have joined hands with forest authorities to check illegal activities and protect the fragile alpine habitats.
The state has appointed 21 people as 'himal rakshaks' - under the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act.
Sixty percent of the state's geographical area lies 3,000 metres above sea level and are mostly classified as reserve forests.
Mt. Kanchendzonga - the third highest peak in the world - forms the western boundary of the Kanchendzonga National Park, home to rare animal species like snow leopard, musk deer and black-necked crane.
'Due to lack of infrastructure and hostile terrain, protection of these areas has been inadequate,' T.R. Poudyal, Sikkim's chief conservator of forests, told IANS.
'Patrolling is difficult and expensive as it requires hiring additional manpower to carry provisions for the staff.'
Other important wildlife sanctuaries in the state are Fambong Lho, Maenam and Kyongnosla.
The 'mountain guardians' are familiar with the terrain and can help keep a watch against activities harmful to the environment, he said.
'They collect food and other supplies from the mountains for living. The government has permitted them to use limited forest produce, provided they help in the conservation,' explained Poudyal.
Areas in lower elevations are managed by joint forest management committees, which are village associations in partnership with the forest department.
Unregulated grazing, hunting, trapping of wild animals and unplanned tourism are some of the threats to the eco-system.
'Conservation of this eco-system is vital, since it supports the water needs of thousands of households downstream as well as the region's vast flora and fauna,' said Sandeep Kumar Tiwari, assistant manager of the Wildlife Trust of India -.
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