Kawardha, Chhattisgarh — The dense forests and rolling hills of the Bhormadev Wildlife Sanctuary in Kawardha district are echoing once again with the presence of tigers, bringing renewed hope and excitement for wildlife lovers and conservationists alike.
Recent images captured by trap cameras installed by the Forest Department have confirmed the presence of a tiger, tigress, and their cubs roaming freely inside the sanctuary and nearby forest areas. The clear visuals provide strong evidence that Bhormadev is gradually re-emerging as a safe and thriving habitat for big cats.
A Sign of a Healthy Ecosystem
Wildlife experts say that the return of tigers is not just a visual delight but a strong indicator of a healthy forest ecosystem. Forest officials have observed tigresses hunting along with their cubs, suggesting that prey populations are stable and the natural food chain is functioning smoothly.
According to Divisional Forest Officer Nikhil Agrawal, more than four tigers and tigresses are currently active across different parts of Kabirdham district. Tiger movement has been recorded in areas such as Prabhujhol, Chilphi, Benda, Jhalmala, Jamunpani, the inner zones of Bhormadev Sanctuary, and along the Bandha-Beriyal to Jamunpani route. Paw marks and movement trails have also been found at several locations. For security reasons, exact locations are not being disclosed, and continuous monitoring is underway.
Safari to Boost Tourism
With the increasing presence of tigers, the Forest Department is fast-tracking preparations to launch a jungle safari at Bhormadev Wildlife Sanctuary. Officials said the safari is likely to open for tourists in April or May. A reputed Gujarat-based company has been awarded the contract to manage safari operations through a committee.
Ticket bookings will be available online, making the safari easily accessible to visitors. The initiative is expected to offer tourists a rare opportunity to witness tigers in their natural habitat while also promoting eco-tourism.
Local Employment and Conservation Success
The upcoming safari is also expected to generate local employment and strengthen conservation-based tourism in the region. Forest officials believe that the return of tigers reflects the success of sustained conservation efforts.
Overall, the resurgence of tigers in Bhormadev Wildlife Sanctuary is not just a victory for the Forest Department but a matter of pride for the entire Kabirdham district. It stands as a powerful reminder that with the right protection and management, forests can reclaim their lost glory.