The National Wildlife Board (NWB) has deferred a proposed road widening project within the Pranhita Wildlife Sanctuary. The decision has been made due to concerns about the impact of such infrastructure development on the sanctuary’s ecosystem and wildlife.
Background of the Pranhita Wildlife Sanctuary
Pranhita Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Telangana, India. The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including endangered species. Its ecological importance makes it a critical area for conservation efforts. The proposed road widening project, intended to improve connectivity, has raised concerns among environmentalists and wildlife conservationists.
Concerns Raised by Environmentalists
The road widening project has been met with resistance due to potential threats to the sanctuary’s biodiversity. Environmentalists have expressed concerns that expanding roads in such sensitive areas can lead to habitat fragmentation, disrupt animal corridors, and increase human-wildlife conflicts.
National Wildlife Board’s Decision
After reviewing the proposal and the potential environmental impacts, the National Wildlife Board decided to defer the project. The board emphasized the need for a thorough assessment of the project’s effects on the sanctuary’s wildlife and ecosystems before making a final decision.
Future Steps
The National Wildlife Board has called for further studies on the long-term effects of road construction on the sanctuary’s environment. Stakeholders, including wildlife experts, government bodies, and environmental organizations, are expected to be involved in these discussions.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Why did the National Wildlife Board defer the road widening project in Pranhita Wildlife Sanctuary?
- A) Lack of funds for the project
- B) Concerns about its impact on the sanctuary’s ecosystem
- C) Public opposition to the project
- D) Request from local communities
- Answer: B) Concerns about its impact on the sanctuary’s ecosystem
- What is the main concern of environmentalists regarding the road widening project in Pranhita Wildlife Sanctuary?
- A) Loss of forest cover
- B) Habitat fragmentation and disruption of animal corridors
- C) Increased tourism to the sanctuary
- D) Economic development of the region
- Answer: B) Habitat fragmentation and disruption of animal corridors
- Which sanctuary is affected by the proposed road widening project?
- A) Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary
- B) Pranhita Wildlife Sanctuary
- C) Jim Corbett National Park
- D) Kaziranga National Park
- Answer: B) Pranhita Wildlife Sanctuary
- What is the next step recommended by the National Wildlife Board for the road widening project?
- A) Immediate approval of the project
- B) Further studies on the environmental impact
- C) Construction of alternative roads
- D) Relocation of the sanctuary’s wildlife
- Answer: B) Further studies on the environmental impact