Leopard Sightings in Kambalakonda Raise Conservation Concerns
Visakhapatnam, May 23, 2023 – Recent leopard sightings in the forests of Kambalakonda have sparked concerns among authorities and wildlife enthusiasts. The presence of leopards was discovered during the search for a tiger that had entered the Visakha district months ago. Previously, leopards were known to inhabit the forests of Visakhapatnam, which are close to inhabited areas.
To prevent wild animals from venturing into populated regions, strict conservation measures are being implemented. Special teams are working on establishing a protective fence around Kambalakonda, and close monitoring of wildlife activities is underway.
Forest Range Officer Ram Naresh Birlangi, in an exclusive interview with ‘Enadu,’ emphasized the importance of these initiatives in protecting both wildlife and human populations. He also discussed recent tiger encounters in the region, mentioning that the tigers had moved towards the border forests of Odisha and Chhattisgarh, causing minimal threat to human life.
Kambalakonda and Seetakonda hills, located near Visakhapatnam, play a vital role in oxygen generation and are home to diverse animal species.
Authorities are closely monitoring activities near the Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, which is designated as an eco-sensitive zone. The Supreme Court has prohibited certain activities within a 100-meter radius of the sanctuary to safeguard the wildlife and forest ecosystem.
Efforts are underway to protect valuable forest lands from encroachments, and legal battles have resulted in victories for the forest department. However, the overall forest area in the Visakha district has reduced due to the formation of new districts.
Conservation efforts are crucial to preserving the remaining forests and ensuring the coexistence of wildlife and human populations. By working together, it is possible to strike a balance between development and environmental sustainability in the region.
The recent leopard sightings highlight the urgency of implementing effective conservation measures and raising awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats.
In conclusion, the forests of Visakhapatnam, including Kambalakonda, are invaluable treasures that contribute to the region’s ecological health. With concerted efforts, these forests can thrive, providing habitats for diverse wildlife and a source of pride for future generations.