Two new rhino rehabilitation areas to be set up in UP's Dudhwa

Lucknow, Jun 19 (PTI) The Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday said it has approved the establishment of two new Rhino Rehabilitation Areas (RRAs) in Dudhwa National Park in Lakhimpur.

Under the Forest and Wildlife Department's ambitious plan, a budget of Rs 1.5 crore has been allocated for the project, the government said in a statement.

"This fund will be utilised for the long-term preservation of the natural habitats of rhinos and other endangered species, training personnel for wildlife monitoring, and procuring essential medicines and equipment," the government said.

"Additionally, a portion of the funds will be dedicated to raising awareness among local communities about the importance of rhino and wildlife conservation," it said.

The Forest and Wildlife Department has launched this long-term conservation project focused on protecting the natural habitat of rhinos and other endangered species in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh.

The project will be implemented specifically in Dudhwa National Park, with the goal of ensuring sustainable measures for habitat protection.

Dudhwa National Park's Deputy Director Rangaraju said Rs 1.5 crore has been sanctioned for the development of two new RRAs in the park.

"These new centres -- RRA-3 and RRA-4 -- will follow the earlier models of RRA-1 and RRA-2 and facilitate close monitoring of rhinos in semi-wild environments, enabling them to thrive naturally in their habitat. The initiative will also benefit other endangered species in the area," he said.

Rangaraju stated that the allocated funds will support various habitat conservation efforts.

"Of the total, Rs 1.27 crore will be used for the maintenance of natural habitats, water bodies, and favourable vegetation. An additional Rs 7 lakh has been set aside for wildlife medicines and chemicals, Rs 4.8 lakh for major construction work, and Rs 3 lakh for minor civil work," he said.

Moreover, Rs 7 lakh will be used for the procurement of monitoring devices, machinery, and other necessary equipment, he added.

The project's overarching goal is not just to conserve rhino habitats, but also to strengthen surveillance systems to curb poaching and the illegal trade of rhino parts.

Training programmes will also be organised to involve and sensitise local communities towards conservation efforts, according to the statement. PTI KIS DV DV