Power lines running through tiger corridor approved in central India

The Indian National Board for Wild Life approved the construction of power lines through a wildlife corridor connecting Tadoba and Kawal tiger reserves. The decision has frustrated conservationists as the corridor has been documented to serve as an active passage for multiple species between the two wildlife sanctuaries. The construction of the power lines will disturb the natural environment and also pose a safety threat to any nearby animals. Electrocution is actually one of the major causes of death for wildlife in India. Data from the Wildlife Protection Society of India (WPSI) has found that 150 leopards and 46 tigers were among the many animals killed both intentionally and accidentally via electrocution.

While India has largely been held up as a leader in tiger conservation, decisions like these have drawn criticism from the greater wildlife advocacy community. When asked about the decision, one leading district official stated that the power lines should and will be insulated, which would decrease the risks posed to any animals in the area.

Full Story at Times of India