Lakhimpur Kheri — In a significant move to bolster wildlife conservation, the Uttar Pradesh government has approved the establishment of two additional Rhino Rehabilitation Areas (RRAs) within Dudhwa National Park. This initiative aims to enhance the protection of rhinos and other endangered species in the region.
The Forest and Wildlife Department has allocated a budget of Rs 1.5 crore for the development and long-term preservation of these habitats. The funds will be directed towards habitat maintenance, wildlife monitoring, procurement of medicines and equipment, and community awareness programs focused on the importance of rhino conservation.
The new RRAs, designated as RRA-3 and RRA-4, will be modeled after the existing rehabilitation areas RRA-1 and RRA-2. These centers are designed to enable close monitoring of rhinos living in semi-wild environments, promoting natural growth and sustainability. The project also aims to protect other endangered species residing within the park.
According to Rangaraju, Deputy Director of Dudhwa National Park, Rs 1.27 crore of the allocated funds will be used for habitat maintenance, including the upkeep of water bodies and vegetation favorable to wildlife. Additionally, Rs 7 lakh is earmarked for wildlife medicines and chemicals, Rs 4.8 lakh for major construction works, and Rs 3 lakh for minor civil works. Another Rs 7 lakh will cover the acquisition of monitoring devices and essential equipment.
The project prioritizes enhancing surveillance measures to combat poaching and the illegal trade of rhino parts. It also includes training programs to engage and sensitize local communities, fostering their active participation in conservation efforts.
This comprehensive initiative by the Uttar Pradesh government is expected to contribute significantly to increasing the rhino population in the state while preserving the broader biodiversity of the Terai region.
