The Bihar Government’s ambitious plan to construct a grand memorial for Jarasandh, a key figure from the Mahabharata and the ancient king of Magadha with his capital at Girivraja (modern-day Rajgir) at lush green Rajgir wildlife sanctuary, has taken a significant step forward. Recently, the Central Wildlife panel, headed by Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav, approved the project, bringing it closer to realisation.
Situated in the protected area in Nalanda district, this project includes the installation of an 18-foot tall statue of Jarasandha, various murals depicting his life and achievements, as well as tributes to great freedom fighter and socialist Lok Nayak Jayprakash Narayan also known as JP. Additionally, the project envisions the construction of an art gallery using prefabricated materials and the renovation of existing park facilities.
The project is part of the Jay Prakash Udyan Park situated within the sanctuary and officials pin hopes that it is expected to boost tourism given that it is around 100 km from the State capital Patna, and cultural interest by highlighting Bihar’s rich historical and mythological heritage. Because of the want of approval, many installed structures are in dilapidated condition.
Given that the project falls within the Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary, it required extensive consideration for wildlife clearance. The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife, which is the highest decision-making body of the Central Government for projects in protected sanctuaries and reserves, has now endorsed the proposal. This approval signifies that the project has met the necessary environmental and regulatory criteria, as confirmed by an official from the Union Environment Ministry.
“The State Government had requested the diversion of approximately 1.8436 hectares of forest land within the Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary for the installation of the statue and historic murals, alongside the construction of essential facilities such as toilets, a cafeteria, and an art gallery made of prefabricated structures,” said the officials.
The proposal has already received recommendations from the State Chief Wildlife Warden, the State Board for Wildlife, and the State Government.
According to the minutes of the meeting of the NBWL, the Chief Wildlife Warden noted that the sanctuary was officially notified in 1978, with park development commencing prior to that and opening to the public in 1979. “The ongoing renovation and provision of basic amenities are crucial to maintaining and enhancing the park for public use,” said the minutes quoting the Bihar Government officials about the project being overseeing by the Divisional Forest Officer of the Nalanda Forest Division.
Following deliberations, the Standing Committee recommended the proposal with the stipulation that the region's flora and fauna remain undisturbed. The Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary is home to various species, including wild boar, cheetal, jungle fowl, porcupine, hare, langur, monkey, and jackal. The central wildlife panel emphasised that the legal status of the land will remain as part of the sanctuary and will be dedicated solely to eco-tourism purposes.
The project proponent has assured that no trees will be cut down as the area falls within an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) for which the final notification was issued in 2017. The park, established in 1979, has been in use since its opening.
However, many of its structures are now in disrepair. The planned upgrades include the installation of essential amenities such as toilets, seating benches, platforms, drinking water facilities, landscaping, and water drainage systems.
These improvements are vital to prevent further deterioration of the park. “Upgrading the park is aimed at integrating the ecological, cultural, and historical aspects of Rajgir,” said officials. “This initiative will bring the glory of ancient India to the forefront, providing educational opportunities for park visitors and enhancing their understanding of the region's rich heritage,” he said.
