The Bombay High Court's Panaji bench has directed the Goa government to designate the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as a Tiger Reserve within three months starting from Monday. This decision was made in response to a petition filed by the local NGO Goa Foundation, urging the government to take action and designate a tiger reserve in the state. Interestingly, just 10 days prior to the court's order, the Goa government had rejected the proposal to establish a tiger reserve, stating that the state's small wildlife sanctuaries did not successfully meet the criteria set by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
The court has directed the Goa government to create a tiger conservation plan within three months of notifying the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve. Additionally, the state must set up anti-poaching camps in the Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks within six months. The Forest Minister mentioned that they will explore all options and respect the HC decision but will stand by the State Wildlife Board's decision. Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao praises the judgment as a significant relief for the people of Goa. The High Court's directive to notify Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as a Tiger Reserve is seen as crucial in the efforts to preserve Mhadei. He appeals to the residents to accept the verdict for the greater good of Goa.
The opposition parties in Goa believe that designating the tiger reserve will strengthen the state's case against Karnataka to prevent water diversion from the Mhadei wildlife sanctuary. However, some locals from Sattari in North Goa oppose the 'tiger reserve' status, expressing concerns about potential restrictions on their movements in cashew plantations.
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