Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

The approval of an eco-tourism resort project on the Surla plateau, located within the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, has sparked significant concern among environmentalists.

About Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary

The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot in the Western Ghats, located in the northern part of Goa.

• Area:
  The sanctuary spans 208 square kilometers, covering diverse terrains from dense forests to hilly landscapes.

• Name Origin:
  It is named after the Mhadei River, which flows through the sanctuary. This river plays a vital role in the region's hydrology and supports local wildlife.

• Geography:
  The sanctuary is home to some of the highest peaks in Goa, such as:

  • Sonsogod (1027 m)

  • Talvche Sada (812 m)

  • Vagheri (725 m)

• Waterfalls:
  Some of the picturesque waterfalls within the sanctuary include:

  • Vazra Sakla Falls

  • Virdi Falls

Flora and Fauna

The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity in both flora and fauna:

Flora:

• The forest type is mainly semi-evergreen and moist deciduous, with abundant species such as teak, sal, and bamboo.

• It is also home to medicinal plants and orchids, along with sacred groves that protect rare and indigenous trees.

Fauna:

• The sanctuary is an important habitat for wildlife and is home to several iconic species, including:

  • Bengal tigers (critical to the concern over the resort project)

  • Black panthers

  • Leopards

  • Sloth bears

  • Gaur (Indian bison)

  • Various species of deer

• The sanctuary also harbors a variety of snakes, including the Indian krait, Russell’s viper, Saw-scaled viper, and Spectacled cobra.

• Over 250 bird species have been recorded, including:

  • Malabar trogon

  • Great pied hornbill

  • Nilgiri wood pigeon

  • Many species are endemic to the Western Ghats.

Critical Habitat for Long-Billed Vultures:

• The cliff face near Vazra Falls is a key nesting ground for the critically endangered Long-billed vultures, making it a crucial area for conservation.

Concerns Over Eco-Tourism Project

The decision to approve the eco-tourism resort in this area has led to the following concerns from environmentalists:

1. Impact on Tiger Habitat:
   The Surla plateau is part of a critical tiger habitat, and the introduction of tourism infrastructure could disrupt the natural behavior and movement of Bengal tigers and other wildlife species. Even eco-tourism has the potential to disturb wildlife, especially in a sanctuary that serves as a safe haven for endangered species.

2. Ecological Disruption:
   The construction of a resort may lead to habitat fragmentation, noise pollution, and human-wildlife conflict, which could significantly affect the delicate ecosystems in the sanctuary. Additionally, the introduction of large-scale infrastructure may increase traffic, resulting in the disturbance of wildlife populations and the degradation of their habitats.

3. Water and Waste Management:
   Resorts can put immense pressure on local water resources and may lead to the pollution of nearby rivers and streams. Waste management becomes a critical issue, especially in an ecologically sensitive area.

4. Tourism Pressure:
   While eco-tourism aims to bring economic benefits, it can also lead to overcrowding and unsustainable development, which can further stress the sanctuary's resources and affect the flora and fauna.

Why is Mhadei Sanctuary Important?

The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is not only crucial for conservation but also plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region:

• Biodiversity: The sanctuary is home to some of India’s rarest and most iconic species. Preserving it ensures that these species continue to thrive in their natural habitat.

• Water Conservation: The Mhadei River is an important water source for both wildlife and local human populations. Protecting the sanctuary is essential for maintaining the health of the river.

• Climate Regulation: As part of the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the sanctuary plays a significant role in maintaining the climate regulation of the region, with its forests acting as carbon sinks.