Kaziranga National Park Enhances Flood Preparedness with Women Forest Guards
Kaziranga's Vigilant Response to Rising Water Levels
Female forest guards in their round-the-clock duty during flood season in Kaziranga (Photo: AT)
Jorhat, July 3: As concerns grow over potential flooding in Assam due to increasing water levels, Kaziranga National Park authorities are ramping up their preparedness efforts. Forest staff are on high alert, working tirelessly to protect wildlife and monitor critical animal pathways.
Leading these efforts are the park's female forest guards, who are conducting continuous patrols to safeguard animals that may venture out of the park in search of higher ground during floods.
These women are particularly active in the Panbari Animal Corridor, a vital route for wildlife during the monsoon season.
Collaborating with their male colleagues, they are overseeing animal movements, preventing accidents, and ensuring the safety of wildlife in and around essential corridors.
A female forest official noted that while personnel are always on duty, their vigilance has increased with the rising water levels. "We have a 24/7 duty every day, and with the current situation, we are more alert. Everything is under control, and we are preparing ourselves for any challenges ahead," she stated.
She emphasized the teamwork between male and female forest personnel in their mission to protect wildlife and maintain security throughout the park.
"Male forest officials are also on duty with us. Together, we ensure the safety and security of the wildlife," she added.
According to forest officials, the flood season poses significant challenges for Kaziranga, as animals often migrate to safer areas, which increases their vulnerability to road accidents and poaching.
The women guards, who often navigate difficult terrains and harsh weather, play a vital role in the park's conservation initiatives.
The forest department has urged motorists traveling through wildlife corridors and adjacent highways to adhere strictly to speed limits during the monsoon. "We ask travelers to respect speed-limit regulations and drive carefully to avoid harming animals. Many vehicles speed through these corridors, and it is crucial to follow the established protocols," the official remarked.
This increased vigilance is part of a broader set of precautionary measures implemented by Kaziranga National Park authorities in anticipation of the monsoon season.
Forest officials have positioned country boats at various forest camps for quick response, deployed additional personnel, enhanced wildlife monitoring systems, and activated emergency rescue plans to address potential flooding.
Authorities have also enforced strict traffic regulations along wildlife corridors and nearby sections of National Highway 715, including a speed limit of 40 km/h and restrictions on unnecessary stopping, parking, honking, and the use of bright lights to facilitate the safe movement of animals seeking higher ground during floods.