Morigaon: In a concerted effort to preserve the pristine habitat of its famous residents, the forest staff of Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary on August 9 undertook a massive drive to clear an invasive weed, Parthenium, also known as Congress grass.
A team of 40 dedicated forest personnel, under the leadership of Range Officer Pranjal Baruah, meticulously cleared a sprawling 5.2-hectare area of the sanctuary. The intensive Invasive Alien Species Eradication Drive, which lasted for six hours, marked a significant step in the sanctuary’s ongoing conservation efforts.
The operation was carried out with the utmost care for the safety of the staff, who were provided with special precautions to counter the allergic properties of the weed. Speaking to reporters, Pranjal Baruah confirmed that the team’s mission is far from over. On August 10, they will extend their efforts to the Tamuliduva area, where they will be joined by members of EDCS and the Pobitora Jeep Safari Association for a special eradication drive.
Baruah underscored the sanctuary authority’s commitment to enhancing the ecosystem’s carrying capacity. He stated that special emphasis is being given to improving the habitat for Pobitora’s numerous rhinos and other animals through various measures, including weed eradication and soil moisture conservation. This strategic approach aims to ensure the long-term well-being of the sanctuary’s diverse wildlife. Pobitora, a jewel in Assam’s conservation crown, is renowned for boasting the highest density of the great one-horned rhinoceroses in the entire country.
The 2022 rhino population census revealed a healthy count of 107 Indian one-horned rhinoceroses thriving within the sanctuary’s 38.81 sq km expanse, making such habitat preservation initiatives all the more critical.
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