Ranchi: The Jharkhand forest department has identified 75 wildlife corridors used by elephants and big cats and is working on measures to improve their habitats and reduce their movement into human habitats, in an attempt of curb man- animal conflict in the state, principal chief conservator of forests (PCCF) Sanjeev Kumar said.Kumar inaugurating the 72nd Wildlife Week at the forest headquarters here on Friday said that the department was studying ways to ensure that wildlife could continue to live in its natural habitat while development takes place around it.“Whenever we talk about wildlife, we talk only about big animals and their conflict with humans. But we must think about their coexistence. Conflicts arise from the gap between development and nature. The department has been working on improving wildlife habitats and reducing the movement of animals into human habitats,” he said.Kumar said wildlife conservation should not be restricted to large animals such as elephants and big cats. As part of the wildlife week celebrations, the department will organise a workshop on the identification, protection and management of wildlife corridors on Oct 6.Chief conservator of forests S R Natesh, in his address during the event said Jharkhand has around 30% forest area and nearly 40% forest cover. He said railway infrastructure has created gaps in forest connectivity, but the department is in discussions with railway officials to address the issue.Natesh said Jharkhand’s tribal culture has traditionally had a preservation-oriented attitude towards nature.The inaugural programme was attended by a large number of school and college students. Amritesh Kumar, a student of Ranchi Veterinary College, said he was happy to attend the programme as wildlife conservation is closely connected with his field. “I am extremely happy to come to the programme. Since this is also related to our field, it will be useful when I enter professional services,” he said.
