Criticising the move, environmentalists blamed the forest department for the devastation just for giving a top view of Jal Mahal from the leopard reserve. They also said constructing a route had disturbed the habitat of wild animals including leopards.
State Board for Wildlife (SBWL) member Sunil Mehta said, “In leopard conservation areas where tourism is permitted, hills are essential for the refuge of leopards. Unfortunately, the department has penetrated right through leopards’ homes while mercilessly felling thousands of trees and ruining the entire ecology of the area. There is a fine line that divides wildlife tourism with normal tourism. On this occasion, they have transcended that fine line. Conservation has taken a back seat to commercial tourism.”
After the leopard safari at Amagarh forest block was proposed, a route of approximately 15km was developed to monitor the wild cats. The forest, spread over approximately 16.87sqkm, has 17 leopards.
Another enthusiast, who wished not to be named said, “Apart from leopards, the forest has various attractions such as 132 species of avifauna, 20 reptiles among others. Trees that have been cut in the 3km stretch and heavy machinery used to build the tracks had disturbed the entire ecology. Construction including broadening of tracks should not be allowed inside the forest.”
The forest official, however, claimed the routes were necessary for monitoring wild animals.
“The department widened the old tracks connecting the block with a temple. It was necessary for patrolling. Moreover, environmentalists constantly demand the opening of new routes in Sariska for effective monitoring and tourism. On the other hand, they oppose routes being constructed.”
