Human–wildlife conflicts: Centre to roll out renewed linear infrastructure policy

Bengaluru: Amid a nationwide rise in human–wildlife conflict, the Union govt is set to roll out a renewed linear infrastructure policy aimed at streamlining development activities in protected areas while strengthening conservation safeguards.Speaking on the sidelines of the 2nd Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) workshop for International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) member countries in Bengaluru, Soumitra Dasgupta, director (programme), IBCA, said the updated policy would help align infrastructure growth with ecological protection. "The renewed framework will pave the way for improved conservation practices by integrating development and wildlife protection," he said.Dasgupta pointed to successful mitigation measures such as the elevated wildlife corridor through Pench Tiger Reserve and the tunnel project across Mukundra Tiger Reserve. Delegates from 29 countries participating in the workshop will study these conservation models over the next four days.Meenakshi Negi, principal chief conservator of forests (head of forest force), Karnataka, outlined the state's key challenges and solutions, noting that Karnataka blended technology with traditional practices to mitigate conflict and protect habitats.

Author: TNN

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