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Ahmad
Ahmad

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Road Project Near Kaziranga National Park Raises Concerns

Kaziranga National Park is situated in the state of Assam, India. It plays a significant role in the wild ecosystem of India. The national park has an area of over 430 square kilometers. One species that inhabits the park is the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, which has its largest population in the park. The park is also home to more than 300 species of birds and around 35 species of mammals that are considered major ones.

Kaziranga National Park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is mainly due to its great wildlife and good conservation practices. Tourists frequently visit the park mainly to see the rhinos and other animals. Besides, they find the grasslands, rivers, and forests very beautiful and relaxing.

Making a Kaziranga safari booking in advance enables tourists to explore the park. Safaris allow people to observe wildlife in their natural habitats. Moreover, they serve the purpose of supporting conservation efforts and empowering local residents.

What The New 35 Km Road Project Plans To Do
The government plans a 35 km elevated road near Kaziranga National Park’s south border. It aims to reduce traffic and prevent accidents with animals during floods. The road will be raised so animals can pass underneath.

Officials say it will help local people travel safely, especially in monsoon floods. However, experts warn that it is very close to the park and may harm wildlife and the environment.

Why The Project Is Facing Strong Objections
Conservationists and wildlife experts oppose the road. They say construction can disturb animals with noise and vibrations. The road may block paths used for feeding, mating, and moving.

Rhinos, elephants, and swamp deer could have fewer babies. Breaking habitats may force animals into danger. Experts warn it may cause more harm than benefit.

Warning About Damage To Important Wildlife Corridors
Kaziranga National Park has natural paths called corridors for animals. During floods, these paths help animals reach higher land safely.

The new road and changes to National Highway 715 near Burhapahar Range may block these corridors. If animals cannot move, more may die in floods.

Environmentalists say these corridors are very important. Blocking them can reduce habitats, lower genetic diversity, and make animals more at risk from humans and climate change.

The Letter Sent To UNESCO And Its Main Demands
Conservationists wrote a letter to the UNESCO Director-General about the new road. They want urgent action. The letter says the road may cause serious and long-lasting harm to the park.

They ask UNESCO to send a team to study the impact. They also want all construction to stop until a full environmental study is done. Protecting animal paths and natural habitats is the main demand.

Why This Issue Matters For India And The World
Kaziranga National Park is vital for both India and the world. The extinction of some of its species could lead to a reduction in global biodiversity. The one-horned rhinoceros, for example, might be more prone to extinction.

This case illustrates the necessity of conducting research and formulating plans prior to the construction of roads in the area near national parks. Roads should be placed in such a way that they do not interfere with animals and their habitats.

In addition, Kaziranga safari bookings help to fund wildlife preservation efforts and allow tourists to visit this beautiful area without causing any harm to the animals. It is very crucial to find the right balance between infrastructure development and wildlife protection in order to keep the Kaziranga National Park open for future generations.

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