On January 24, the Odisha government announced the creation of the world’s first melancholic tiger safari. The safari would be set up close to Baripada, the Mayurbhanj district capital town. For this reason, a 200-hectare land next to National Highway-18 has been designated. The showcase area will occupy around 100 hectares, with the remaining space used to build veterinary care facilities, including a rescue facility, staff housing, and tourist amenities.
The National Tiger Protection Authority (NCTA) has requested that Odisha establish a melancholic tiger safari on the outskirts of Simlipal, its largest tiger reserve, to raise awareness about these large cats and raise funds for their protection. Since its directives are enforceable, the NTCA is endowed with legal authority under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. However, because of the biradri (brotherhood) structure, they have never been able to impose responsibility on any park management in India. Because they oversee wildlife in both the state and the center, the same cadre is hesitant to penalize anyone. The managers of Similipal Park typically disregarded their directives and warnings.
The world’s first Melanistic Tiger Safari will be established in Odisha
According to forest department authorities on Wednesday, the government of Odisha plans to open the world’s first melanistic tiger safari in the Mayurbhanj district, close to Baripada. According to the officials, a 200-hectare area next to NH-18 has been set aside for this special project. Of that, 100 hectares will be used as the display area, and the remaining land will be used for staff infrastructure, veterinary care facilities, a rescue center, and tourist amenities. Situated around 15 kilometers from the Similipal Tiger Reserve, the selected site mimics the topography of the reserve and is known as the only remaining natural home for melanistic tigers globally.
The Nandankanan Zoo in Odisha is set to host a safari to house surplus tigers and rescued or orphaned tigers for public display. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has reported that melanistic tigers have only been found in the wild in Similipal Tiger Reserve. The project aims to boost wildlife tourism in Odisha and raise awareness about the conservation needs of melanistic tigers. The strategic location of the site, adjacent to the National Highway and near Baripada town, is expected to attract a significant number of visitors. The state government’s proposal has received “in principle” approval from the Technical Committee of the NTCA. A feasibility study will be conducted by the NTCA before final approval is granted. Further statutory clearances, including approval from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), are expected to follow.
Odisha will establish a “black tiger” safari close to Similipal
Naveen Patnaik, the chief minister of Odisha, has declared the opening of a melancholic tiger safari next to the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj. The black tiger is a distinct and endangered species distinguished by a distinctive dark stripe pattern set against a lighter backdrop of white or golden fur. The 200-hectare safari site would be close to Baripada and border National Highway 18. The remaining space will be utilized for staff infrastructure, veterinary care facilities, rescue centers, and visitor amenities. Approximately 100 hectares will be set aside for exhibition purposes. About 15 miles separate the planned location from the Similipal Tiger Reserve.
Odisha’s Similipal Tiger Reserve is set to host a wildlife tourism safari, showcasing the state’s commitment to conservation and showcasing its unique biodiversity. The initiative will house surplus tigers from Nandankanan Zoo and rescued/orphaned tigers fit for display in an open enclosure. The Forest Department aims to raise awareness about the conservation needs of these majestic creatures and allow conservationists, researchers, and enthusiasts to witness their rare beauty up close. The initiative is expected to receive impressive footfall and will be an added attraction for visitors to the Similipal Tiger Reserve. The chief minister announced the announcement after a proposal submitted by the state government to the National Tiger Conservation Authority was approved.
