Establishing a Cheetah Corridor: Enhancing Wildlife Connectivity

Cheetah Corridor Between Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan

Madhya Pradesh, currently hosting translocated cheetahs from Africa, is in talks with Rajasthan to create a designated cheetah corridor. This initiative aims to enhance the habitat of these wild cats and ensure their protection across state borders.

Objective of the Cheetah Corridor

The proposed corridor will link Kuno Palpur National Park and Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh with several protected areas in Rajasthan. This effort is crucial for the survival and adaptability of the introduced cheetah population.

Benefits of the Corridor

By facilitating safe passage between multiple protected areas, the corridor offers cheetahs access to a larger, contiguous habitat. This approach reduces the risks associated with habitat fragmentation and increases genetic diversity and stability within the cheetah population.

Concerns and Considerations

Despite the benefits, the project raises concerns regarding potential restrictions on human activities within the designated corridor areas. Officials have stated that the corridor will not impose new restrictions unless formally notified by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). Thus, finding a balance between wildlife conservation and human livelihoods is a significant consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the purpose of the proposed cheetah corridor?
Answer: The corridor aims to connect protected areas in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, allowing cheetahs to roam freely, enhancing their protection and survival.

Q2. Which areas will the corridor cover?
Answer: The corridor will link Kuno Palpur National Park and Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh with sanctuaries in Rajasthan, including Mukundara, Ranthambore, and Chambal Gharial.

Q3. How will the corridor benefit the cheetahs?
Answer: It will expand their habitat, reduce habitat fragmentation risks, and maintain genetic diversity by enabling free movement across a larger area.

Q4. Will the creation of the corridor impose restrictions on local populations?
Answer: There will be no new restrictions unless the NTCA officially notifies the land within the corridor, ensuring minimal impact on local communities.

Q5. What other wildlife could benefit from this corridor?
Answer: Besides cheetahs, the corridor may facilitate movement for tigers and other wildlife, bolstering conservation efforts for multiple species.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary goal of the cheetah corridor initiative?
A) To reduce human-wildlife conflict
B) To connect protected wildlife areas for cheetah movement
C) To increase tourism in Madhya Pradesh
D) To enhance agricultural activities
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which national park is associated with the cheetah corridor in Madhya Pradesh?
A) Bandhavgarh National Park
B) Kuno Palpur National Park
C) Kanha National Park
D) Pench National Park
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What is a major concern regarding the cheetah corridor?
A) Increased tourism
B) Habitat destruction
C) Potential restrictions on human activities
D) Invasive species introduction
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: Which area in Rajasthan is part of the proposed cheetah corridor?
A) Sariska Tiger Reserve
B) Ranthambore National Park
C) Desert National Park
D) Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: How does the corridor improve cheetah genetic diversity?
A) By limiting their movement
B) By connecting isolated populations
C) By increasing human interference
D) By promoting hunting practices
Correct Answer: B