Why in news?
The Jharkhand tourism department recently launched a jungle safari and eco‑cottages in the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary near Jamshedpur. The facilities aim to promote eco‑tourism while generating revenue for conservation.
Background
Established in 1975, the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary spans about 193 square kilometres across East Singhbhum and Saraikela‑Kharsawan districts of Jharkhand. The sanctuary is named after the local goddess Dalma Mai and encompasses rugged hills rising to about 915 metres, forming part of the catchment of the Subarnarekha River.
Dalma’s forests are mainly of the Dry Peninsular Sal and Northern Dry Mixed Deciduous types. The area is dotted with waterfalls such as Sitaguldi and Dassam and supports diverse flora, including medicinal plants.
Wildlife highlights
- Elephant abode: The sanctuary is renowned for its resident herd of Asian elephants. These elephants migrate along corridors connecting West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand.
- Other mammals: Barking deer, wild boar, sloth bear, porcupine, pangolin and Indian giant squirrel inhabit the forest.
- Avifauna: Birds such as falcons, golden orioles, paradise flycatchers and hornbills add colour to the canopy.
Recent developments
The new jungle safari offers guided vehicle tours through designated routes, allowing visitors to observe wildlife without disturbing habitats. Eco‑cottages built with local materials provide accommodation and are managed by local communities to ensure benefits flow to residents.
Forest officials recently reported the return of a herd of 38 elephants after a three‑year absence. The elephants followed traditional corridors and are expected to reduce human–elephant conflict in the region.