MANAS, Dec 23: Notwithstanding the broken-down infrastructure, the flow of foreign tourists to Manas Tiger Reserve is increasing day by day. Its name and fame attract tourists from various corners of the world. But now the famous attraction of the State is crying for urgent repair of its infrastructure. Almost all the infrastructure, the approach road from Barpeta Road town, the bridges along the road, forest bungalows, the internal facilities for tourists all are in a bad shape in sharp contract to the naturally endowed splendid beauty of the reserve. The Manas Tiger Reserve, in the foothills of Himalayas, has quite a large population of tiger and other rare animals. Earlier in 1917, the Manas Reserve forest was declared a protected area and subsequently the Project Tiger scheme was launched by the Government of India in 1973. In 1979 Manas was identified as a potential biosphere reserve. In 1985 it was declared as World Heritage site (UNESCO). A site of outstanding universal value, in 1990 the core zone of the reserve was declared as Manas National Park with an area of 500 sq km and since 1992 the world heritage site was in danger due to Bodo movement.
The Manas Tiger Reserve was very rich for varieties of rare flora and fauna which are not found in other parts of the world. According to a survey, 60 species of mammals, 312 birds, 42 reptiles, 7 amphibious animals, 54 fishes and 100 insects were found in the Manas. Pigmy hog and golden langur, which are rarely found in other parts of the world, are also available in Manas. Several species of bird, fishes, animals and reptiles found in Manas were also included in the schedule of Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972.
It is a matter of concern that the world famous one-horned rhinoceros has come down to such level that there may be few living in Manas at present. The Ranger of the Bahbari Forest Range MC Brahma told this Correspondent that due to poaching, the rhinos are on the verge of being wiped out. The poachers take advantage of the sophisticated weapons they have, which are not available with the forest guards. Though there have been assurances from time to time regarding improvement of the quality of the arms it has unfortunately not been carried out.
The forest bungalows, which have becomes very old, need immediate renovation. The items used by tourists, such as beds, mosquito nets, furniture, etc., are worn out. At least seven to eight boats, supplied by UNESCO to the world heritage site, are in an abandoned state. When asked about the cause, the ranger replied that the type of boat supplied are not suitable for the rocky river. Facilities for elephant safari are also limited ? there are only a pair of elephants and safari is not allowed for security reasons most of the time. At a time when other states are giving full parity to develop their tourist spots and earning a lot of revenue, the case of Manas in our State is a matter of great concern.