silent retreat

Efforts are on to develop a first-of-its-kind tutelage centre for crocodiles in Madanpur forest range under Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR).

The environment and forests department aims to build the centre for crocodiles of the state in Belhawa revenue village of Bagaha subdivision in West Champaran. “An area of about 2km along the Bhapsa canal in the reserve, where around two dozen crocodiles live, has been earmarked for the purpose,” said the Santosh Tewari, the director-cum-conservator of forests, Bettiah range.

Tewari added: “The pond-like place where nearly 25 to 30 crocodiles are living for over 50 years is a rare spot for their habitation. What is more surprising about them is that they have gradually become people- and animal-friendly with the passage of time.”

“Neither the group of crocodiles pose any threat to the flock of animals in the vicinity nor does it scare the people visiting the place. The residents also never try to disturb the normal routine and lives of the crocodiles,” said the divisional forest officer (DFO) of Madanpur forest range, Nand Kishore.

“The Valmikinagar MLA, Rajesh Singh, is equally interested in the project for conservation of crocodiles in the said village so as to make this constituency more attractive for tourists through proper development. He has been repeatedly visiting the place under Madanpur forest range,” added the DFO. However, he could not be contacted despite repeated attempts.

Briefing on the proposed tutelage for crocodiles, Tewari told The Telegraph: “We wish to develop this particular place under Madanpur forest range as a community reserve and an attractive picnic spot for tourists who intend to visit the VTR during weekends and holidays for a healthy change in the lap of nature.”

“The environment and forests department has already granted permission for the tutelage. The barricaded area would be under the surveillance of security guards of the department,” said Tewari.