World Image Magazine Issue 31 April 2016 | Page 10

Located in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra state in central India is the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. It is noted as Maharashtra's oldest and largest National Park and one of India's 41 "Project Tiger" - Tiger reserves, and was created by amalgamating Tadoba National Park & Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary. Tadoba lies in the confines of Chimur Hills and Andhari comprises of Kolsa and Mohurli Ranges. The total area under the Project Tiger is 1727.6 sq.km with core area being 625. 82 sq.km and the rest 1101.78 sq.km constitute the buffer zone. The core area concept denotes critical tiger habitat which is subject to intense conservation measures with human intervention being minimal. The Tiger Reserve was established in 1994 as second Tiger Reserve in the Maharashtra State, and constitutes a unique ecosystem, comprising, wide variety of flora and fauna including the diverse and rich birdlife, creating a unique natural scenic beauty. It is a popular tourist destination in India. There is significant increase in tourist’s inflow during the recent years. The area represents Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests in the Tiger habitat. It has a viable population in excess of Tigers with high frequency of Tiger sightings. While all reserves are good for the conservation of animals, there are some drawbacks to concept, especially it seems where tigers are concerned. One visitor noted that “there are 4 gates and from each of them a set number of safari jeeps are allowed. But since there is no zone system, all 52 jeeps from all four gates gather at one area as soon as there is a sighting, 52 jeeps with an average of 5 persons per jeep makes it 250 people shouting, cheering and clicking pictures of one tiger/tigress. And then we raise hue and cry when a poor animal loses patience and attacks.” Website = www.worldimagemag.com Page 10 email = [email protected]