The Assam Forest Department has intensified efforts to protect and monitor the greater one-horned rhinoceros in the Laokhowa and Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuaries (LBWLS), which serve as crucial riverine habitats and buffer zones for the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve.
Once home to a thriving rhino population, the sanctuaries witnessed a devastating decline due to rampant poaching during the socio-political unrest of the 1980s.
In recent years, transient rhinos from Kaziranga and Orang National Parks have been observed returning to these habitats, signaling a gradual ecological revival.
The Assam government has played a pivotal role in restoring connectivity between Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuary, Orang National Park, and Kaziranga National Park through expansions and improved habitat corridors along the Brahmaputra River.
This has facilitated the natural dispersal of rhinos, with some choosing to settle permanently in the sanctuaries.
To safeguard these rhinos and enhance conservation efforts, the Nagaon Wildlife Division recently conducted a one-day rapid orientation programme on December 7.
The initiative aimed at equipping frontline staff with advanced monitoring and patrolling skills was led by Jayanta Deka, Divisional Forest Officer of Nagaon Wildlife Division, and supported by conservation experts from Aaranyak, including Dr. Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, Dr. Deba Kumar Dutta, and Arup Das.
Additional knowledge partners included Dr. Kulen Das and Dr. Smarajit Ojha from Nagaon Girls’ College, with Dilwar Hussain representing the Laokhowa and Burhachapori Conservation Society.
The event took place at three locations within the sanctuaries and involved approximately 100 staff members.
Participants received hands-on training tailored to their respective field sites, focusing on habitat security and scientific monitoring techniques.
The initiative aims to boost staff motivation and equip them with the skills necessary for effective rhino conservation.
The restoration of LBWLS as a thriving rhino habitat is a key goal under the next phase of the Indian Rhino Vision.
Local communities in Nagaon district are eagerly awaiting the translocation of rhinos to establish a sustainable population in these sanctuaries.
This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of conservationists, local communities, and forest officials to safeguarding the rhino and restoring the ecological significance of Laokhowa and Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuaries.
