OP AGNIHOTRI/Haldwani
In view of the rising temperatures, the Forest department has launched a special initiative in the Tanda range under the Terai Central forest division to ensure water availability for wildlife struggling with water scarcity inside forests.
The ponds and artificial water sources developed by the department are proving to be a lifeline for wild animals, with regular movement of elephants, leopards, nilgai, deer and swamp deer being reported around the sites.
Forest officials said two large ponds have been constructed inside the forests of Tanda. Around 200-foot-deep artesian wells, locally referred to as “Pataltod wells” have also been made to provide a continuous water supply to wildlife. Besides this, several smaller pits have been created in different forest patches and are being regularly filled through water tankers to prevent water shortage during the peak summer season.
According to officials, one pond has been developed near the Saap Kathani Khatta area while the second is located close to the Tanda range office. Forest personnel have been deployed round-the-clock for monitoring and maintenance of these water bodies. Large numbers of wild animals are reportedly visiting the ponds from early morning hours, where they are seen drinking water and cooling off in the ponds.
On Sunday morning, a department team led by range officer Roop Narayan Gautam inspected the ponds and water pits. During the inspection, several wild animals were spotted drinking water at these water bodies. Gautam said that wherever water scarcity is being observed, additional water is being supplied through tankers and boring pumping sets. He said that wild animals often move out of forests in search of water during summers, increasing the risk to both villagers and wildlife. To address the issue, permanent water sources have been developed inside forest areas.
He further stated that the artesian wells installed near the ponds are ensuring continuous availability of clean water, while smaller water holes are also being replenished regularly. The department will continue the exercise throughout the summer season to ensure adequate water availability for wildlife, he added.
