Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Monday virtually launched works worth Rs 25.80 crores to increase the number of tigers in the Achanakmar Tiger Reserve. This happened at a meeting here of the Chhattisgarh State Wildlife Board held under the chairmanship of Baghel. The Chief Minister laid special emphasis on the safe habitat of wildlife. He gave instructions to ensure adequate food, water and fodder for wild animals in the forests, an official communication said. Forest and Climate Change Minister Mohammad Akbar, Agriculture Minister Ravindra Choubey, School Education Minister Dr. Premsai Singh Tekam and Industries Minister Kawasi Lakhma were among those who attended the meeting. Various proposals related to conservation and promotion of wildlife were approved at the meeting. The discussions covered Guru Ghasidas National Park, Tamor Pingula Sanctuary,
Gomarda Sanctuary, Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve, Tamor Pingla Sanctuary, Indravati Tiger Reserve, Kanker Valley National Park and Bhoramdev Sanctuary.
A discussion was also held regarding radio-collaring of elephants in the forest area and release of vegetarian wildlife from various breeding centres and other places in the natural habitat of the protected areas. Proposals related to construction of a bridge and an access road on the Gopad river from Etwar to Udhaini road in the Guru Ghasidas National Park and upgradation of Jagdalpur-Sukma-Konta road were approved.