Tirhut Divisional Commissioner Girivar Dayal Singh has officially banned all new commercial construction inside the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) in West Champaran. The decision was made during a high-level review meeting to protect the core and buffer zones of Bihar’s only tiger reserve from urban encroachment. Officials have also been directed to take strict action against illegal tree felling and focus on sustainable community-managed tourism.
What are the new rules for Valmiki Tiger Reserve?
The administration has implemented a strict zero-tolerance policy against illegal encroachments along the forest fringes. These encroachments often disrupt the natural wildlife corridors in the Gandak river basin. Directives have been issued to file FIRs and take immediate legal action against individuals or groups involved in illegal tree felling. This move aligns with the state’s Forest and Tree Conservation Ordinance 2026, which imposes heavy fines for damaging forest property.
How is the government promoting eco and religious tourism?
Instead of building commercial infrastructure, the focus is now on promoting sustainable tourism that benefits local communities without harming the habitat. The administration plans to develop religious sites like Valmiki Ashram and Jatashankar Temple. For adventure tourists, spots like Kaleshwar Temple and new canopy walks will be highlighted. Private jeep operators will still be allowed for safaris to support the local economy, but no permanent commercial structures will be permitted inside the sanctuary limits.
What steps are being taken for wildlife protection?
Following the unfortunate death of a tiger earlier this year due to illegal electric fencing, the forest department has increased its vigilance. Officials are now required to conduct regular patrols and educate local farmers about the dangers of using lethal fences around their rabi crops. Additionally, the Department of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change is managing a 10 crore infrastructure upgrade for better anti-poaching measures and forest patrolling tracks.
