TRIBAL HOUSING NEAR BRAHMAGIRI SANCTUARY: WEIGHING CONSERVATION AGAINST REHABILITATION

GS 3 – ENVIRONMENT

The Karnataka government’s plan to establish a tribal village within the buffer zone of Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary has ignited debate. While it seeks to rehabilitate over 570 displaced tribal families, concerns about human-wildlife conflict remain a significant issue.

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary: An Overview

• Location: Western Ghats, Karnataka
• Area: 181 sq km
• Elevation: Brahmagiri Peak (1,607 m)
• River Origin: Lakshmana Tirtha, a tributary of the Cauvery
• Terrain: Rugged, featuring steep valleys and hills

Flora & Fauna

• Vegetation: Evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, bamboo groves, grasslands
• Wildlife:
  • Endangered Species: Lion-tailed macaque
  • Large Mammals: Tigers, elephants, Indian gaur, sambar deer
  • Birdlife: A variety of endemic species

Tribal Rehabilitation & Housing Challenges

Background of Displacement

• In December 2016, tribal families were evicted from the Diddahalli Forest due to conservation policies.
• These families belong to four distinct tribal communities and have been demanding permanent housing since their eviction.

Proposed Settlement Site

• Located just 100 metres from the sanctuary’s boundary.
• 20 acres allocated under the Integrated Tribal Development Project.

Diverging Perspectives

Stakeholder	Supporting Arguments	Concerns Raised
Karnataka Government	Immediate need for tribal resettlement and welfare.	Requires clearance from the buffer zone management committee.
Tribal Families & Activists	Right to secure housing post-eviction.	Worry about delays and unmet promises.
Forestry Officials	Emphasizes planned resettlement to minimize risks.	Potential human-wildlife conflict, particularly with elephants.
Conservationists	Stresses the need to preserve ecological integrity.	Fear that settlement may disrupt wildlife corridors.

Key Challenges & Possible Solutions

1 Human-Wildlife Conflict Risk

• Issue: Close proximity to the sanctuary increases the likelihood of encounters with elephants and predators.
• Solution: Implement early warning systems, wildlife-friendly fencing, and sustainable coexistence strategies.

2  Tribal Welfare & Sustainable Livelihoods

• Issue: Ensuring long-term housing, economic stability, and social integration for displaced communities.
• Solution: Explore alternative relocation to a safer area with access to resources, forest rights, and livelihood support.

Ecological Concerns

• Issue: Risk of deforestation and habitat disruption due to settlement expansion.
• Solution: Adopt buffer zone land-use planning to protect wildlife corridors and minimize environmental impact.

Way Forward

• Balance tribal rights with conservation priorities.
• Conduct a thorough Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) before moving forward.
• Engage stakeholders, including tribal representatives, conservationists, and forest officials, to develop a sustainable resettlement plan.

This issue underscores the broader challenge of integrating human development with wildlife conservation, demanding a well-planned and balanced approach.