Why in news?
Efforts by the Karnataka Forest Department to relocate villagers from the core areas of Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary have faced resistance. Residents of Amagaon village recently demanded higher compensation, better infrastructure and access to land before agreeing to move, delaying the planned relocation drive.
Background
Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Khanapur taluk of Belagavi district on the western edge of Karnataka. Notified in 2011, it covers about 190 square kilometres of lush tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forest. The sanctuary derives its name from Bhimgad Fort, a 17th‑century outpost built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to counter Portuguese incursions from Goa.
Ecological importance
- Source of rivers: Bhimgad forms the headwaters of several rivers, including the Tillari, Malaprabha and Mhadei, which are vital for drinking water and irrigation downstream.
- Unique biodiversity: The sanctuary harbours tropical evergreen and semi‑evergreen forests dominated by Malabar teak, rosewood and dipterocarp species. The Barapede caves within the park are the world’s only known breeding site for the endangered Wroughton’s free‑tailed bat.
- Wildlife: Other inhabitants include the Indian sloth bear, pangolin, leopard, gaur, sambar, king cobra and a rich diversity of birds such as the Malabar trogon and great Indian hornbill.
Relocation issues
- The sanctuary contains 13 villages with about 754 families. Earlier relocation packages offered compensation of roughly ₹15 lakh per family (₹10 lakh upfront and ₹5 lakh later), but many villagers now seek higher payments and assurances of arable land and housing.
- Residents worry about losing cultural ties and access to forest resources on which they depend for livelihood. They are also concerned about the quality of resettlement sites.
- Forest officials argue that shifting human settlements will reduce conflicts with wildlife and allow the forest to regenerate, but negotiations must balance ecological goals with human rights.
Significance
- Bhimgad’s forests and caves protect rare species and sustain rivers that millions rely on. Careful relocation is essential to safeguard both biodiversity and local communities.
- Successful resettlement can serve as a model for other protected areas where human habitation overlaps with wildlife habitats.
Conclusion
Resolving the standoff at Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary requires transparent dialogue, adequate compensation and community participation. Conservation cannot be achieved by force; it must be paired with social justice to create lasting protection for this biodiverse hotspot.
Source: Times of India, Karnataka Tourism