India's central government has identified 62 new elephant corridors, bringing the total to 150. Significant increase from the 88 corridors identified in 2010.
Why:
To ensure safe movement for India's growing elephant population, now exceeding 30,000.
Connects friendly habitats to encourage ecological balance and reduce human-elephant conflicts.
Counters habitat fragmentation and destruction, which had reduced the use of 19% of existing corridors.
How:
State governments reported and validated these corridors using data-driven methods.
Aims to ensure long-term viability of elephant habitats.
Addresses insufficient data on elephant movement in several states.
Geographical Spread:
West Bengal: Leads with 26 corridors.
East Central Region: Commands 35% with 52 corridors.
North East Region: Holds 32%, equivalent to 48 corridors.
Expansion:
Elephants have expanded their ranges in regions like Vidarbha, Madhya Pradesh, and northern Andhra Pradesh.
Indicates changing landscape for elephant habitats in India.
Concerns:
10 corridors are impaired and need restoration for proper elephant movement.
Next Steps:
Prioritize corridor restoration for undisturbed elephant movement.
Enhance data collection on elephant movements, especially in northeastern states with smaller elephant populations, to inform conservation strategies.
