As a result of constant efforts for conservation and habitat improvement, the number of tigers is increasing in the forest areas of Bhopal, Sehore and Obaidullaganj. Due to efforts during the last three years, a conducive atmosphere has been built up for conservation of tigers and habitat for their roaming. Due to it, they are not only being seen in the forest areas, but also in nearby revenue forest areas.
Tigers and other wild animals are being seen in about 1,200 sq km area in Obaidullaganj forest division's Ratapani sanctuary and nearby districts.
The Forest Department has made effective drinking water arrangements for wild animals of Ratapani sanctuary and nearby areas. Wild animals are getting drinking water continuously from water bodies, creaks, reservoirs and stop-dams in every 4 to 6 km area. As many as 151 water sources have been developed in the entire area. Similarly, 16 water sources have been developed for wild animals in Sehore district and 13 in Bhopal district. These water sources are in addition to existing water sources at Dahod, Kolar, Kaliyasot and Kerwa dams. Besides, drinking water supply to wildlife is also being ensured by flowing water through water tankers in artificially made streams. In sensitive areas, water supply is ensured through patrolling.
Adequate meadows are being developed in tigers' roaming areas. Healthy herbivore animals are staple food of tigers. Meadows have been developed in 200 hectares in Ratapani sanctuary and 25 hectares in Bhopal forest division.
The Forest Department is monitoring roaming of tigers round-the-clock through patrolling in Bhopal forest division. Monitoring is being done at circle and beat guard level through evidence of tiger presence like pugmarks, excreta, animals preyed by them, camera traps and e-surveillance system. Due to the Forest Department's alertness, no tiger-human conflict has come to the fore even during frequent visits of tigers in Bhopal's jungles. Entry of tigers in residential areas is being prevented by fencing tiger roaming area.