Chanchal Gola/ Ramnagar
The wild animals in Corbett National Park will no longer have to venture towards human settlements to slake thirst. Astral Foundation is set to install solar-powered pumps worth Rs one crore across the forest to fill water holes and ensure that wildlife has access to sufficient drinking water all the year round.
The SDO of Bijrani Range of the Park, Amit Gwasakoti said that in the first phase, solar pumps and solar plants will be installed at select sites, including Fika Chowki under Dhela Range, Dhangarhi under Sarapduli Range and near the campus area of Bijrani Range. The borewells will be connected to water holes to provide a steady water supply for the animals, he added.
“During the summer season animals like tigers, elephants, bears and deer often rely on water supplied by tankers. This process consumes time and involves challenges. Once the new solar-powered system is installed, water will naturally become available throughout the year,” he said.
In the first phase, solar pumps are being installed at three locations after which more pumps will be added near other existing water holes.
Importantly, a joint team of the company and Corbett National Park officials is currently identifying suitable borewell sites near the water holes to ensure the best locations for installation.
