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News of Jan
2 2007
Sikkim Villagers Turn Mountain Guardians
Gangtok,
Jan 2
A group of villagers in Sikkim have joined hands with forest
authorities to check illegal activities and protect the fragile
alpine habitats. The state has appointed 21 people as 'himal
rakshaks' (mountain guardians) under the provisions of the
Wildlife Protection Act.
Sixty percent of the state's geographical area lies 3,000 metres
above sea level and are mostly classified as reserve forests.
Mt. Kanchendzonga - the third highest peak in the world - forms the
western boundary of the Kanchendzonga National Park, home to rare
animal species like snow leopard, musk deer and black-necked crane.
"Due to lack of infrastructure and hostile terrain, protection of
these areas has been inadequate," T.R. Poudyal, Sikkim's chief
conservator of forests, told IANS.
"Patrolling is difficult and expensive as it requires hiring
additional manpower to carry provisions for the staff."
Other important wildlife sanctuaries in the state are Fambong Lho,
Maenam and Kyongnosla.
The 'mountain guardians' are familiar with the terrain and can help
keep a watch against activities harmful to the environment, he said.
"They collect food and other supplies from the mountains for living.
The government has permitted them to use limited forest produce,
provided they help in the conservation," explained Poudyal.
Areas in lower elevations are managed by joint forest management
committees, which are village associations in partnership with the
forest department.
Unregulated grazing, hunting, trapping of wild animals and unplanned
tourism are some of the threats to the eco-system.
"Conservation of this eco-system is vital, since it supports the
water needs of thousands of households downstream as well as the
region's vast flora and fauna," said Sandeep Kumar Tiwari, assistant
manager of the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI).
IANS News of Jan
2 2007
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