Wildlife institute in Bhitarkanika to start bio database work

The State Forest Department and Dehradun-based Wildlife Institute of India (WII) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for compilation of a comprehensive database of bio-diversity of the Bhitarkanika National Park.A team of scientists from WII recently paid a visit to Bhitarkanika to collect a wide range of information on the bio-diversity, eco-system, socio-economic status of the locals  and their dependence on forest produce.

Though its eco-system and mangrove cover continues to be destroyed by people from human settlements at the periphery, the place still possesses a rich reservoir of natural vegetation, flora and fauna. The park is already designated as a Ramsar site.The WII, which has the expertise in such delicate spheres, is to bring together Bhitarkanika's comprehensive database in this regard. The WII team headed by Manoj Nayar on Monday started their month-long exercise on studying the flora and fauna of Bhitarkanika. It has been expected that the team would submit a comprehensive database within a month.

The WII team would also interact with stakeholders and residents residing at the fringes of the National Park, as the heritage site status would do good to them.

It may be noted here that the Forest Department had earlier sent a proposal to the UNESCO for considering the Bhitarkanika as a World Heritage site. Presently, the famous Konark Sun Temple is the only site from the State enjoying the status.