Bhubaneswar: Following killing of two forest officials by poachers in Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), Union Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Bhupendra Yadav has written a letter to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for protection of the STR.
Shri Yadav said he came to know about the recent incidents, in which two forest frontline brave-hearts, laid their life in the line of duty in two different encounters with poachers in Similipal Tiger Reserve.
Stating that it is a matter of immense concern, Shri Yadav said he had sent a high-level team led by the Director General of Forests & Special Secretary, MoEF&CC visited the Similipal Tiger Reserve and the team has submitted a detailed report highlighting issues requiring immediate attention for compliance.
“I would like to state that utmost efforts are required to be in place for stepping up intelligence network, patrolling, combing operation to contain any such attempt which could further escalate the situation in Similipal Tiger Reserve,” suggested the Union Minister.
The Union Minister also complimented the State Government which is one of the important tiger range States harbouring the unique melanistic tiger in Similipal Tiger Reserve.
To ensure protection of the Tiger and well-being of the forest front line force, in tiger bearing landscapes, it is necessary to make concerted efforts to uphold tiger conservation initiatives.
He was confident that the CMO would take note of the concern raised and issue directives to all authorities concerned in the State to ensure utmost vigil and compliance.
Shri Yadav also assured cooperation and continued support from the Centre to the State for the cause of wildlife conservation and our forest front line brave-hearts.
Notably, forester Mati Hansda, aged about 45 years was killed during an exchange of fire between the poachers and forest officials on June 16 late night. Earlier, Bimal Kumar Jena, a 35 years old forest guard was shot dead by a group of poachers at Similipal Tiger Reserve on May 22 night.
In both the cases the Odisha Police have arrested all poachers involved in the crimes.
