Forest Cover in Bandh Baretha: A Conservation Perspective
Mar 21, 2025
Forest Cover in Bandh Baretha: A Conservation Perspective
Introduction to Bandh Baretha’s Forest Cover
Nestled in the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan, Bandh Baretha Wildlife Sanctuary is a crucial green patch amidst the arid landscape of eastern Rajasthan. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, seasonal wetlands, and historical importance, this sanctuary plays a significant role in conservation.
The recent re-notification of its boundary (March 23, 2021) brought significant changes to its protected status, with 27.855 sq. km denotified while incorporating additional forest lands from Karauli district into its fold. Simultaneously, infrastructure projects like the laying of an underground Optical Fiber Cable (OFC), covering 0.3312 hectares, highlight the delicate balance between conservation and development.
With these ongoing changes, it becomes crucial to assess the forest cover in Bandh Baretha, its ecological importance, and the measures needed to ensure its long-term protection.
Geographical and Ecological Significance of Bandh Baretha
The sanctuary is characterized by a mosaic of dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and aquatic ecosystems, spread across Bharatpur and newly integrated Karauli regions. It serves as a crucial wildlife corridor, linking Keoladeo Ghana National Park and the semi-arid forest patches of Rajasthan.
Key Features of Bandh Baretha’s Landscape:
- Forests: Dominated by Dhok (Anogeissus pendula), Babul, Acacia, and Ber trees.
- Wetlands: The Bandh Baretha reservoir is a seasonal waterbody supporting diverse birdlife.
- Scrublands: Hosting drought-resistant shrubs and grasses crucial for herbivores.
- Topography: Undulating hills and rocky outcrops define its rugged terrain.
These ecosystems play a vital role in carbon sequestration, water retention, and biodiversity conservation.
Changes in the Sanctuary’s Boundaries: Re-Notification of Bandh Baretha (2021)
Denotification of Certain Forests
On March 23, 2021, the Rajasthan government officially denotified 27.855 sq. km from the northern and eastern boundaries of Bandh Baretha. The removed areas included Shukashila and Kot Reserved Forests (Bayana Tehsil) and Banshi Pahadpur-A and B (Rupbas Tehsil). The decision was based on recommendations from the State and National Wildlife Boards.
New Areas Added to Bandh Baretha
To compensate for the loss, 197.855 sq. km of forest land in Karauli district was added to the sanctuary:
- Pahadtali (25.41 sq. km)
- Mewla (55.72 sq. km)
- Banswadi (94.49 sq. km)
- Jamura-Datmakoli (22.22 sq. km).
Impact of Re-Notification
- Expanded habitat for wildlife, ensuring better protection of endangered species.
- Stronger forest connectivity, allowing free movement of species across larger territories.
- Better management opportunities, with clearly demarcated forest areas.
These changes align with conservation priorities while addressing land-use requirements.
Infrastructure Development: Optical Fiber Cable Project in Bandh Baretha
Project Overview
The Laying of Underground Optical Fiber Cable (OFC) from Samri Mod SH-43 to Singhaniya GP is a critical infrastructure project covering 7.36 km through the sanctuary. The Area Calculation Sheet outlines that:
- 0.0936 hectares of forest land will be impacted.
- 0.2376 hectares of non-forest land within the sanctuary is affected.
- The route is designed to minimize ecological disruption by avoiding dense forest patches.
Environmental Concerns
- Trenching for cables could disturb the topsoil, root networks, and small burrowing animals.
- Habitat fragmentation risks, particularly near Singhaniya, where the route passes through a sensitive forested segment (Segment-7, 0.0315 ha of forest land).
- Need for strict compliance with Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) guidelines to ensure no long-term ecological damage.
While the impact is minor, long-term conservation monitoring is essential.
Biodiversity in Bandh Baretha
Bandh Baretha is a haven for diverse flora and fauna, acting as a natural habitat for several endangered and migratory species.
Key Faunal Species
- Mammals: Leopards, Nilgai (blue bull), Wild boars, Jackals, Hyenas, and Langurs.
- Birds: A paradise for migratory waterfowl, including Sarus Cranes, Painted Storks, and various ducks.
- Reptiles: Indian Monitor Lizards, Pythons, and various gecko species.
- Aquatic Life: Reservoir fish populations that sustain avian biodiversity.
Floral Diversity
- Tree species: Neem, Acacia, Dhok, and Ber.
- Shrubs & Grasses: Crucial for herbivore grazing.
- Wetland vegetation: Typha, sedges, and floating plants that aid in water purification.
The integration of Karauli’s forest blocks adds richer biodiversity, expanding the sanctuary’s ecological range.
Challenges and Conservation Strategies
Key Threats to Forest Cover
- Deforestation and Encroachment – Expansion of agriculture and illegal settlements.
- Unregulated Grazing – Overgrazing leads to loss of ground cover, impacting soil fertility.
- Poaching & Wildlife Conflicts – Cases of illegal hunting and human-wildlife conflicts.
- Forest Fires & Climate Change – Rising temperatures make the region prone to seasonal fires.
Conservation Efforts
- Strict enforcement of ESZ guidelines to prevent harmful development.
- Engaging local communities in eco-tourism and conservation programs.
- Strengthening patrolling and anti-poaching measures.
- Afforestation and habitat restoration projects.
Sustainable conservation planning can preserve Bandh Baretha’s forests for future generations.
Future of Forest Cover in Bandh Baretha
The forest cover in Bandh Baretha is undergoing significant transformations due to boundary re-notifications and infrastructural interventions. The expansion into Karauli strengthens its ecological role, but ongoing projects like the OFC installation must be carefully monitored to prevent long-term habitat damage.
A combination of strong legal protections, community engagement, and scientific management will be vital in ensuring that Bandh Baretha remains a thriving wildlife sanctuary.
