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INTRODUCTION

Despite the long and spectacular evolutionary history of the Proboscides,

extending back to the Eocene, there are only two living representatives of

elephants;the African elephant (Loxodonta africana) and the Asian elephant (Elephas

maximus). While an estimated 1.3 million L. african range over a vast area of the

African continent (Douglas Hamilton, 1908), E. maximus has been reduced to a

number of relatively small population comprising 36-54 thousand individual in South

and Southeast Asia (Olivier, 1978, sukumer, 1985).

India holds by far the largest number of wild Asian elephants, estimated at

about 26,000 to 28,000 or nearly 60% of the population of the species (Bist 2002; data

from Project Elephant Directorate in 2011). Elephas maximus placed in Schedule I

and Part I of Indian Wildlife Protection Act (1972) conferring it the highest level of

protection. Historically, the significance of the elephant in Indian culture and

mythology, as well as its economic and military role in sub continental armies, has

also contributed to a remarkable level of tolerance and support of people towards its

survival and conservation (Sukumar, 2011).

However, the resource needs of a growing human population (over 1.2 billion

people: Census 2011) of a country experiencing strong economic growth, growing and

dispersing elephant populations at regional scales, shrinkage and fragmentation of

elephant habitat, and increasing human-elephant conflicts emphasize the urgent need

for appropriate long-term policies to manage and conserve the species. Given its long

history of about 4500 years in taming the elephant (Sukumar, 2011), India also

presently manages 3400-3600 elephants in captivity (Bist, 2002).

Captive elephants have been used for a variety of purposes in India including

warfare, logging, cultural and religious ceremonies, recreation in zoos, and circuses

and more recently for wildlife tourism and protection of Sanctuaries and National

Parks. However, with declining work due to the ban on timber logging in the country

and the use of modern machinery, the traditional interest among private owners and

state forest departments in managing captive elephants is declining. In contrast,


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demand for elephants in temples, which once received its animals from the state forest

departments, continues to increase with their stock getting depleted due to old-age

deaths and absence of recruitment from breeding (Bist, 2002).

1.1. ASIAN ELEPHANTS DISTRIBUTION IN INDIA.Wild elephants are presently confined to the forested hilly tracts of four

different regions:

(i) The foothills of Himalayas in the north(ii) The north-eastern states.(iii) The forests of east-central India(iv) The forested hilly tracts of Western and Eastern Ghats in southern

India.

(v) A small population of feral elephants exists in the Andaman Islands.A brief account of the status and distribution of elephants for the four major

regions in India is given below. ( Lahiri-Choudhury 1980; Menon et al. 2005).

Region Habitat[km2]

Corridors 1978-83 1993 1997 2002 2007

North-eastern

Northern

East-central

South

Andaman

Islands

41,000

5,500

23,500

39,500

500

36

12

20

20

-

10,273

525

2310

6450

?

11,027

875

2314

11,353

35

9482

1200

2444

12,716

35

9243

1667

2649

12,814

40

9330

1726

2633

14,005

?

Grand total 110,000 88 19,558 25,604 25,877 26,413 27,694

Table no.1.1 Estimates of regional wild elephant numbers in India

i) North-eastern India: Elephant distribution in this region extends along the Himalayanfoothills from northern West Bengal eastward into the states of Assam, Arunachal

Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura and Meghalaya. Some of these

ranges are contiguous to Bhutan, Bangladesh and possibly Myanmar. The region is

estimated to hold approximately 9000-9500 elephants, [North Bank of the


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Brahmaputra in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh(3250 elephants), South Bank

Eastern Areas in Assam and Arunachal (1200 elephants), South Bank Central Areas

of Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong-Nagaland (2950 elephants) and South BankWestern

Areas of Assam extending into Meghalaya (3000 elephants)] remain fairly large,

over larger areas (Choudhury,1999).

ii) Northern India: The elephant range is spread in a west-east direction along thefoothill forests and floodplains of the Himalaya in the states of Uttarakhand and

Uttar Pradesh, partly adjoining Nepal. The region is presently believed to support

about 1700 elephants and the numbers have shown an increasing trend over the years

(Table 1.1).(Johnsingh et al.1990; Singh, 1995).

iii) East-central India: The elephants of eastern India are distributed over 23,500km mostly in the Chota-Nagpur plateau across the states of Orissa and parts of

Jharkhand (Shahi and Chowdhury 1986; Sar and Varma 2004). Since 1986 some of

these elephants have also been moving into neighbouring states, in particular to

southern West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and, more recently, to north-eastern Andhra

Pradesh, where they are in serious conflict with people. Recent estimates

(Synchronized Elephant Census 2002 and 2007) place the figure at around 2650

elephants, with elephants of Orissa constituting over 70% of them (1860 elephants)

followed by Jharkhand (624 elephants), Chhattisgarh (122 elephants) and southern

West Bengal (25 elephants resident).

iv) Southern India: The elephants in southern India range over forested hilly tractsof the Western Ghats and its adjacent Eastern Ghats in the states of Karnataka,

Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and more recently in a small area of Andhra Pradesh,

Maharashtra and Goa. Their distribution has shrunk to within the Ghats owing to

increase in human population and its resultant opening of new land for the expansion

of agriculture, commercial plantations, and hydroelectric and irrigation dams

(Sukumar,1989).

v) Island Population: There are 40 feral elephants in Andaman and NicobarIslands (Synchronized Elephant Census 2002) confined to Diglipur Forest Division

in North Andaman and the Interview Island Sanctuary (Sivaganesan and Kumar


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1995). These elephants were taken from mainland for timber extraction and

abandoned by the company in 1962 (Sivaganesan and Kumar 1994).

1.1.3. DISTRIBUTION OF ASIAN ELEPHANTS IN ASIAa) Bio geographic realm

Indo-Malayan

b)Range StatesBangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, India, Lao People's

Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam.

c) Geographical LocationSouth Asia, eastern Asia

1.1.4. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTIONThe elephant is the largest terrestrial mammal in Asia. It is smaller than the

African elephant, with relatively smaller ears. Asian elephants have a single "finger"

on the upper lip of the trunk, while African elephants have a second on the lower tip.

Females are usually smaller than males and are also fine swimmers.

a) TusksTusks are enlarged canine teeth, but in elephants they are actually

elongated incisors and are essentially no different from other teeth. One third of

the tusk is actually hidden from view, embedded deep in the elephants head. This

part of the tusk is a pulp cavity made up of tissue, blood and nerves. The visible,

ivory part of the tusk is made of dentine with an outer layer of enamel.

b) Size.The largest Indian elephant was 3.43 metres (11.3 ft) high at the

shoulder.[4]

In 1985, two large elephant bulls were spotted for the first time in

Bardia National Park, and named Raja Gaj and Kanchha. They roamed the park

area together and made occasional visits to the females. Raja Gaj stood 11.3 ft

(3.4 m) tall at the shoulder and had a massive body weight. The Indian elephant is

up to 6.4m in length and around 2-3.5m in height.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_elephant#cite_note-4http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_elephant#cite_note-4http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_elephant#cite_note-4http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bardia_National_Parkhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bardia_National_Parkhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_elephant#cite_note-4


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Normal Body sizeBody length: 550-640cmShoulder height: 250-300cm

Weight: 5,000kg

c) EarsIndian elephants have smaller ears, but relatively broader skulls and

larger trunks than African elephants. Toes are large and broad. Unlike their African

cousins, Elephants keep their ears in constant motion in order to radiate the heat

they generate and therefore cool themselves. The species are reported to have well

developed hearing, vision and olfaction.

d) ColourThe skin colour of Indian elephants is dark grey to brown, with patches

of pink on the forehead, the ears, the base of the trunk and chest.

e) Habitat and EcologyAsian elephants are extremely sociable, forming groups of 6 to 7 related

females that are led by the oldest female, the 'matriarch'. Like African elephants, these

groups occasionally join others to form herds, although these associations are

relatively transient.

f) LifecyclesYoung Asian elephants are reported to stand soon after birth and can

follow their mother in her daily routine after a few days. It stays under supervisionof its mother for several years, but begins making independent movements at 4

years.

Both sexes may become sexually mature at as early as 9 years, but males usually do

not reach sexual activity until 14-15 years.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skullhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skull


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g) Breedingwhen the habitat conditions are favourable, female elephants may give

birth to a calf every 2.5-4 years, otherwise every 5-8 years. Asian elephants give

birth to one calf weighing 50-150kg.

h) DietElephants are classified as mega herbivores and consume up to 150 kg

(330 lb) of plant matter per day more than two thirds of the day may be spent

feeding on grasses, but large amounts of tree bark, roots, leaves and small stems are

also eaten. Cultivated crops such as bananas, rice and sugarcane are favoured

foods. Because they need to drink at least once a day, the species are always close

to a source of fresh water.

1.1.5. ELEPHANT COMMUNICATIONa. Visual

They use their head, eyes, mouth, ears, tusks, trunk, tail, feet, and eventheir whole body to visually an emotion.

Angercharging, flapping their ears, kicking up dust, tossing theirtrunk.

Scared/Excitedraised tail and chin, ear-spreading, trunk twisting. Friendlylifting and rapidly flapping ears, widening eyes. Sadhead hangs low, ears hanging, frowning, tail down.

b. AuditoryThey use their voice to give each other messages about how they feel or

whats going on. Also, they can sense ultrasonic sounds.

Time to leavefemales lead group to new destination. Help me!member in stress.

c. TouchThey use their trunks, tusks, feet, and body to make contact with one another.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megaherbivorehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megaherbivore


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Hungryrubbing against leg, wrapping trunk around leg. Greetingintertwining trunks, tusk tapping.

d. ChemicalThey have special glands on their head (ear and temple) that secrete liquids

that sends messages through scent.

Frightened/Surprisedsecrete liquid1.1.6. PROJECTELEPHANTROLES

Project Elephant (PE) was launched by the Government of India in the year 1992

as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with the following objectives :

To protect elephants, their habitat & corridors

To address issues of man-animal conflict

Welfare of domesticated elephants

Financial and technical supports are being provided to major elephant bearing

States in the country. The Project is being mainly implemented in 13 States / UTs ,viz. Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh , Assam , Jharkhand , Karnataka , Kerala ,

Meghalaya , Nagaland , Orissa , Tamil Nadu , Uttaranchal , Uttar Pradesh and West

Bengal. Small support is also being given to Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh. Main

activities under the Project are as follows:

Ecological restoration of existing natural habitats and migratory routes of

elephants.

Development of scientific and planned management for conservation of

elephant habitats and viable population of Wild Asiatic elephants in India.

Promotion of measures for mitigation of man elephant conflict in crucial

habitats and moderating pressures of human and domestic stock activities in

crucial elephant habitats.

Strengthening of measures for protection of Wild elephants form poachers and

unnatural causes of death.


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Research on Elephant management related issues.

Public education and awareness programmes.

Eco-development

Veterinary care

a. Elephant Reserves:Till now 26 Elephant Reserves (ERs) extending over about 60,000 sq km have

been formally notified by various State Governments. Consent for establishment 6

more ERs - Baitarini ER & South Orissa ER in Orissa , Lemru & Badalkhod in

Chattisgarh and Ganga-Jamuna (Shiwalik) ER in U.P , Khasi ER in Meghalaya has

been accorded by MOEF. The concerned State Governments are yet to notify these

ERs. List of Elephant Reserves with area and population as per 2005census are as

follows.

Sl.

No.

Elephant Range Elephant Reserve State Total

Area

(Sq. Km)

P.A. in

ER

(Sq.

Km.)

I Eastern India(South West Bengal-Jharkhand-Orissa)

1. MayurjharnaER(24.10.02)

W. Bengal 414 -

2. Singhbhum ER(26.9.01)

Jharkhand 4530 193

3. Mayurbhanj ER(29.9.01)

Orissa 3214 1309

4. Mahanadi ER(20.7.02)

Orissa 1038 964

5. Sambalpur ER27.3.02

Orissa 427 427

6. Baitarni ER# Orissa 1755 -

7. South Orissa ER# Orissa 4216 7508. Lemru # Chattisgarh 450 -

9.Badalkhol-

Tamorpingla- #

Chattisgarh 1048.30 1154.93

II North Brahamputra(ArunachalAssam)

10. Kameng ER (19.6.02) ArunachalPradesh

1892 748

11. Sonitpur ER (6.3.03 ) Assam 1420 420

III South Brahamputra(Assam- Arunachal)

12. Dihing-Patkai ER(17.4.03)

Assam 937 345

13. South Arunachal ER( 29-2-08 )

ArunachalPradesh

1957.50 378.13


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# Approved by Govt. of India, but not yet notified by the State Government.

Proposal for extension approved by GOI, but not yet notified by the State

a. Monitoring of Illegal Killing of Elephants ( MIKE) ProgrammeMandated by COP resolution of CITES, MIKE program started in South Asia

in the year 2003 with following purpose

To provide information needed for elephant range States to make appropriate

management and enforcement decisions, and to build institutional capacity within

IV Kaziranga(Assam- Nagaland)

14. KazirangaKarbiAnglong ER (17.4.03)

Assam 3270 1073

15. Dhansiri-LungdingER (19.4.03)

Assam 2740

16. Intanki ER

(28.2.05)

Nagaland 202 202

V Eastern Dooars

(Assam- W. Bengal)

17. Chirang-Ripu ER

(7.3.03)

Assam 2600 526+

18. Eastern Dooars ER(28.8.02)

W. Bengal 978 484

Total 3578 1010

VI E. Himalayas

(Meghalaya)

19 Garo Hills ER

(31.10.01)

Meghalaya 3,500 402

20. Khasi Hills ER# Meghalaya 1331 -

VII NilgiriEastern

Ghat(Karnataka- Kerala-Tamil nadu-Andhr)

21. Mysore ER

(25.11.02)

Karnataka 6724 3103

22. Wayanad ER (2.4.02) Kerala 1200 394

23. Nilgiri ER (19.9.03) Tamil nadu 4663 716

24. Rayala ER (9.12.03) Andhra Pradesh 766 525

VIII South Nilgiri(Kerala- Tamilnadu)

25. Nilambur ER (2.4.02) Kerala 1419 90

26. Coimbatore ER(19.9.03)

Tamil nadu 566 482

IX Western Ghat(Tamilnadu- Kerala)

27. Anamalai ER(19.9.03)

Tamil nadu 1457 300

28. Anamudi ER (2.4.02) Kerala 3728 780

X Periyar

(Kerala Tamilnadu

29. Periyar (2.4.02) Kerala 3742 1058

30. SrivilliputturER(19.9.03)

Tamil nadu 1249 568

XI

Northern India

and (Uttaranchal-U.P.).

31. Shivalik ER

(28.10.02)

Uttarakhand 5405 1340

32. Ganga-Yamuna ER# U.P 744 -

Total 6149 1340

GRAND TOTAL 59,900+ 16,700+


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the range States for the long-term management of their elephant populations the

main objectives of the MIKE are:

to measure levels and trends in the illegal hunting of elephants;

to determine changes in these trends over time; and

to determine the factors causing or associated with such changes, and to try and

assess in particular to what extent observed trends are a result of any decisions taken

by the Conference of the Parties to CITES

Under the programme data are being collected from all sites on monthly basis in

specified MIKE patrol form and submitted to Sub Regional Support Office for South

Asia Programme located in Delhi who is assisting Ministry in the implementation ofthe programme.

MIKE sites in India: -

I. Chirang Ripu (Assam)2. Dhang Patki (Assam)

3. Eastern Dooars (WB)

4. Deomali (Arunchal Pradesh)

5. Garo Hills (Meghalaya)

6. Mayurbhanj (Orissa)

7. Mysore (Karnataka)

8. Nilgiri (T N)

9. Shivalik (Uttarakhand)

10. Wayanad ( Kerala)

1.1.7. Threats in country to elephant conservationHabitat loss and threat of further fragmentation are perhaps the most important

threats to the conservation of elephants in the country. Many of the existing corridors

are threatened by infrastructure development in a rapidly growing economy, being

susceptible to activities such as construction of new roads and railway lines or

expansion of existing ones (as in the northeast), tourism infrastructure (as to the east

of Corbett National Park in the north), mining (as in Keonjhar and Saranda districts in


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the east-central region) and demand for large dams (as in the south). To give an

example from one such threat, about 44 elephants have died in direct collision with

trains across the country over a period of five years (Baskaran et al, .2011).

1.1.7.1. Effect of rail and road on elephant habitatRail and an increase in road traffic operate in a synergetic way across several

landscapes and cause not only an overall loss and isolation of wildlife habitat. Various

developmental activities also come up on either side of the highways and railroads

thereby further fragmenting the habitat and increasing biotic pressures.

a. Railway lines

In India, a large number of endangered wild animals including elephants,

tigers, leopards, Rhinoceros and gaur are being killed annually by train hit. Since

1987, the country has lost 180 elephants due to train hits. These include 36% cases

recorded from Assam , 26% in West Bengal, 14% in Uttarakhand, 10% in Jharkhand,

6% in Tamil Nadu, 03% in Uttar Pradesh, 03% in Kerala and 2% in Orissa. Various

factors contribute to elephant mortality by train hits.

These include: - Ecological (food, water, shelter, vegetation and movement of

elephants), physical factors (steep embankments and turning), technical (speed of

train, frequency and time, an unmanaged disposal of the edible waste and garbage)

and lack of awareness of drivers, passengers and planners. A general lack of

coordination between the railways and the forest department is the reason for lack of

any sustained mitigation measure.

b) RoadsThe increasing spatial demands of the road network to support development

and economic growth of the country, many of them are passing through forest, has

severely affected wildlife habitat and survival of various species, especially nomadic

species like elephants.

In India, a large number of animals are killed every year, especially during the

monsoons. Expansion of highways is the thrust of the government to develop

infrastructure and connectivity.


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Graph no 1.1.7.1 Elephant mortality due to train hit in India

c) MiningThis is another important factor affecting elephant conservation in the country.

Mining activities cause a range of environmental consequences that can be severe and

irreversible. Mining operations and the process of constructing new mining

infrastructure often results in large-scale alteration of the environment at landscape

and ecosystem levels. Loss of forest cover occurs not only in the mined area but also

in areas affected by associated activities such as dumping of overburden, deposition of

tailings, development of infrastructure for transport and service corridors (railway

lines, roads, pipelines, conveyers) and surface facilities (offices, workshops, vehicle

parks, storage depots and warehouses). The excavation of the substrate materials and

creation of the mine voids also alter the soil profile, hydrology, topography, and

nutrient status of the substrate. These secondary factors have the potential to result in

deleterious effects on the local biodiversity.

Mining, especially open cast mining has dealt a severe blow to elephant

conservation in the country, especially in Central India where most of elephant areas

in Singhbhum (Jharkhand), Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Dhenkanal, Angul and Phulbani

(Orissa) have been severely fragmented leading to increased HEC and movement of

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

TOTALNUMBEROFELEPHAN

TDIED

Elephant mortality due to train hit in India

Elephant mortality due to

train hit in India(1987-

2007)


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elephants to adjoining states of Chhattisgarh and West Bengal. Between 1996 and

2000, the growth of open cast mining was 7.6% compared to 0.7% for underground

mining. Total forest land diverted for mining between 1980 and 2005 in India is about

95002.6 hectares.

d) High tension power linesElectrocution is one of the most common causes of elephant deaths in India.

This is due to two important reasons:

a) High tension electric lines passing through forest area: The electricity poles

supporting the wires are placed far apart, causing the wires to hang low. At times

elephant passing under the wire accidently touches it and gets electrocuted.

b) At times, the high tension wires are illegally tapped by villagers from the nearby

electric poles and used as barrier to prevent crop raiding by elephants or even for

poaching as seen in recent days in Orissa, North Bengal, Karnataka and many other

states.

Fragmentation, loss and degradation of habitat, combined with increasing

elephant populations at places (and cessation of elephant captures), has escalated

elephant-human conflicts in the country with resulting manslaughter, damage to

cultivated crops and property.

In spite of this people have retaliated against raiding elephants by poisoning or

electrocuting them; during 2006-2011 at least 200 elephants died in this fashion.

Illegal captures of wild elephant calves for trade of captive elephants are

reported to take place in a few places in the northeast along the Assam-Arunachal and

Assam-Nagaland border. Ivory poaching has been one of the major threats to

conservation of elephants in the country. The threat to tusked male elephants began to

assume serious in southern India during the 1970s and accentuated during the 80s and

90s resulting in the most skewed sex ratios in Asia.


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1.2. OBJECTIVE OF STUDY1. Present Elephant population in Rajaji national park.2. Train accidents records of elephant in Rajaji park area.3. Role of Govt. of India and Wildlife Trust of India in supporting for

minimizing Train collision with elephant in Rajaji National Park.


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REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Johnsingh and Joshua (1994) studied about India have five major populations

of elephants lives in North-West India, where 90% of the total of 750 elephants

occurs in Rajaji and Corbett National Parks and adjacent reserve forests.. Threatsinclude loss of habitat, loss of corridors due to developmental projects, increasing

biotic pressure both from within the forest as well as from the fringes, weed

proliferation and lack of regeneration, pollution of water sources, and human elephant

conflict.

Johnsingh and Williams (1999) discussed conservation status of five elephant

corridors in different regions of India i.e. Ariankavu and Thenmalai, Chilla-Motichur,

Rajaji-Corbett corridors, Kallar-Jaccanari and Siju-Rewak for several decades because

a rail track and road, both of which are bordered by human habitations cross it.

Elephants of these corridor have not used. The future of the, which hold the Rajaji-

Corbett elephant population in North-West India as one entity is bleak.

Kushwaha et al., (2001) analysed in Rajaji-Corbett Elephant Reserve in the

Shivaliks of nascent Uttaranchal state. Efforts were made to detect changes in the state

of forest cover vis-a-vis the status of corridors during the three periods i.e. 1967, 1986

and 1998. The study revealed that Rajaji -Corbett Elephant Reserve is falling forest

loss, degradation and disturbances in the corridor areas, hindering elephant movement

and restricting them to forests islands. Motichur-Chilla corridor, despite being a

highly favoured habitat for the elephants was found to be highly threatened followed

by Kotdwar and Ramnagar corridors.

Prasad (1999) discussed the Dehradun Shiwalik belt is the North-Western limit

of the vast range of the Asian elephant. It is also a region which has been heavily

populated in recent years and this along with highways, hydroelectric schemes on the

Ganga, has greatly disrupted and reduced the effective habitat and migrations of the

resident elephants. Elephant man confrontations have increased to unacceptable levels

with elephants wrecking havoc on cultivation.


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Johnsingh et al;(1990) studied about the Rajaji-Corbett National Parks area,

Northern India, four crucial corridors for elephant movement have been identified: 1.

Binj rau (Br) and 2. Chilla-Motichur (C-M) across the Ganges; and 3. Malin River and

4. Kotdwar-Amsod is rugged terrain further east. They showed that the Binj rau

corridor is no longer used by elephants and those of Malin and Kotdwar- Amsod

rarely. They discussed problems of overgrazing, weed proliferation and lack of tree

regeneration in the C-M corridor and suggest management inputs.

Singh (2001) studied about present population status and distribution pattern of

elephant in the undivided Uttar Pradesh, essentially the North-Western population of

this species. Much of the information was extracted from the official records of forestdepartment, over several decades. The population has a growth rate of 4% and 2.4%.

elephants here too face similar conservation threats from poaching, killing, accidental

deaths and habitat degradation and loss.

Singh, (1969) reported the census conducted in 1966 and 1967 in Uttar

Pradesh, India. Elephants in this state are confirmed to three regions. (1) Western

region-Shiwalik, East Dehradun, West Dehradun, Lansdowne and Bijnor Forest

Divisions, (2) Central region - Kalagarh and Ramnagar Forest Divisions, including

Corbett National Park and (3) Eastern region - Haldwani, Tarai and Bhabar Forest

Divisions. In an area of 2, 55,000 acres of elephant habitat, about 330 elephant were

counted in both the years, which included 80-112 males (95%) confidence interval

144-180 females and 58-88 calves. It was evident that the population of elephants in

U.P. is not likely to be more than 400 in number relating presumption that the

population explosion giving rise to increasing human elephant conflict.

Williams et al., (2001) studied elephant human conflict in Rajaji National Park

North Western India, from 1996 to 1999 and recorded all human and elephant deaths

or injuries caused by conflict. Primary conflict included crop raiding competition

between humans and elephants for vegetation and elephant mortality due to trains.


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Singh and Gureja (2001) studied Elephant conservation efforts raise conflict

issues not only through crop raiding but also, generally when conservation comes into

conflict with development. The study deals with two cases studies from north and

North-Eastern India, the former demonstrating a present and future problem of

conservation versus development, and the latter demonstrating the common,

increasing issue of direct human-elephant conflict., trains running through the Park

have claimed the lives of numerous elephants over the years. The study showed that

all accidents occurred during the night period Maximum mortality occurred during the

summer months of high temperature and low rainfall.

Singh et al., (2004) discussed increase in animal mortality due to rail or roadtraffic Twenty elephants died, since 1987, due to trains on the 18 km stretch of

railway track passing through elephant habitats in Rajaji National Park in Uttaranchal

State in India. The mitigation measures included workshops to sensitize the drivers,

signboards along the track to keep them alert and reduction of speed in the identified

sections. Night patrolling during the identified seasons alerted the drivers to be

vigilant averting accidents. The mitigation efforts jointly implemented by Uttaranchal

Forest Department, Indian Railways and Wildlife Trust of India has been successful in

preventing elephant mortality due to train accidents

Maniktala (2002) studied to assess the man animal conflict with special focus

in Rajaji National Park (RNP). The economic evaluation of loss of crops due to crop

raiding, cost of crop protection borne by the villagers before fencing was done in the

Bullawala village of Rajaji National Park, and identification of possible role of the

community for maintenance of power fence raised at Bullawala village in Feb. 2002

were studied in the village. Elephants showed a seasonal variation in crop raiding,

being high during June - September that was marked by the presence of rice and

sugarcane.

Singh and Sharma (2001) studied free movement of Asian elephant all over

India that has been disrupted to a great extent. Shrinkage of elephant habitat due to

linear developments (rail lines, roads, canals and human habitation) in and around theprotected areas give rise to foraging and migratory problems, resulting ultimately in


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an elephant conflict, confrontation among herds, and accidental deaths. The study

paper discusses in details threats faced by Asian elephants in the sub Himalayan

region in Rajaji National Park, Uttaranchal India. There have been numerous elephant

deaths due to speeding trains.


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METHODSANDMATERIALS

3.1. Study Area

Rajaji National Park is one of Indias major destinations for nature-based

tourism, with rich floral and faunal diversity. Presence of Asian elephant is a prime

feature, which attracts the tourists to stay connected with this area.. The Shivalik

foothills (lesser Himalayan zone) are one of the worlds most spectacular landscapes,

encompassing the tall grasslands and the Shorea robusta (Sal) forests. From a tourism

point of view RNP appears to be Indias one of the most successful national parks and

increasing rate of tourists has helped to boost the infrastructure of the park.

RNP is the second largest protected area of the Uttarakhand state. Park is a

magnificent eco-system nestled in the Shivalik ranges and the beginning of the vast

Indo-Gangetic plains thus, representing vegetation of several distinct zones and forest

types like riverine, broad-leaf; mixed forest, chirpine forest, scrub land and grassy

pasture lands. It possesses as many as 25 species of mammals and 315 avi-fauna

species. Besides, the park also comprises of numerous Status of floral and faunal

diversity in the RNP.

3.1.2. Rajaji National Park background history:-

The park has been created in 1983 by amalgamation of three sanctuaries- Rajaji

sanctuary (estd.1948) Motichur sanctuary (estd.1964) and Chilla sanctuary (estd.1977)

after the name of renowned statesman and freedom fighter Sri C. Rajgopalachariya -

The first and last Governor General of independent India popularly known as "Rajaji".

who was a prominent leader of the Freedom Struggle, the second and last Governor-

General of independent India and one of the first recipients of India's highest civilianaward Bharat Ratna in 1954.

3.1.3. Park description & LocationRajaji National Park is an Indian national park that encompasses the Shivaliks,

near the foothills of the Himalayas. This lies in the lesser Himalayas and the upper

Gangetic plains. It is spread over 820 km2, and three districts of Uttarakhand:

Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri Garhwal.


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RNP has been designated as a reserved area for the "Project Elephant" by the

Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India with the sole aim of

maintaining the viable population of Asian elephants in their natural habitat. The

Shivalik foothills offer the most prominent geomorphic features of this tract. The river

Ganges has cut across these hills at Hardwar. The Chilla forest area of the RNP lies in

the east of the river Ganges and is attached by the Garhwal Forest Division.

3.2. Wildlife Sanctuaries of Rajaji National ParkIn 1983, three wildlife sanctuaries in the area namely, Chilla, Motichur and

Rajaji sanctuaries were merged into one national park and named Rajaji National

Park.

S. No Name of Sanctuary Area (sq km )

1. Motichur 89.5540

2. Rajaji 248.5329

3. Chilla 248.9480

4. Other reserve forests 234.3870

Total 820.4219

Table no. 3.2 wildlife sanctuaries of RNP

3.3. Range wise forest cover of Rajaji National ParkIt is well established fact that apart from the crop composition, forest density is

one of the most important factors that determine the distribution and occurrence of

wildlife in a forest area. Classifications of the Park Forest according to different

criteria are given bellow:-

Sl.

No.

Range name Tropical

moist

deciduous

forests

Tropical dry

deciduous

forests

Subtropica

l pine

forests

Non

forest

Plantation Grand

total

1. Ramgar 6966.15 327.93 58.85 284.59 65.48 7703.00

2. Kansaru 6671.89 231.80 11.01 295.33 722.66 7932.70

3. Motichur 5767.06 999.55 2.43 900.91 372.25 8042.20

4. Gohri 7059.10 1366.91 737.84 1014.05 0.00 10177.90

5. Chilla 7551.25 5771.36 386.07 1118.06 3.06 14829.80


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6. Haridwar 1799.49 5075.09 31.28 479.60 1140.04 8525.50

7. Beribara 2634.34 3105.02 210.80 519.11 835.33 7304.60

8. Dholkhand 3528.32 1240.86 216.71 526.10 483.11 5995.10

9. Chillawali 3504.80 4664.17 979.99 782.28 1600.15 11531.39

Total 45243.93 22504.03 2614.78 6521.61 5157.84 82042.19

3.4. Rajaji National Park TopographyLatitude 29015' to 30031' North

Longitude 77052' to 78022' East

Altitude The lies between 302 and 1000 meters above sea level

3.4.1.ClimateDue to the close proximity Rajaji's Climate is mostly same as of Rishikesh. The

temperature ranges between 20-25C during the day. In summer, temperatures can be

as high as 48C. In winter, 1.0-2.8oC, there is an average 750mm. of rainfall.

3.4.2. SoilsDue to wide variations in topography, intensity of erosion, parent material and

other factors, the soils show wide variations in many characteristics, especially

texture, depth, stoniness, colour, drainage, moisture status, organic matter content and

cation exchange capacity.

3.4.3. Temperature and Rainfall:Meteorological data were obtained from F.R.I. observatory over the last

decade varies from 2.80C in January to 37

0C in May. The highest temperature

recorded at the survey of India Observatory at Dehradun since 1868 was recorded on 7

June 1923, when it rose to 43.650C in the shade.
http://www.therishikesh.com/climate.phphttp://www.therishikesh.com/climate.phphttp://www.therishikesh.com/climate.phphttp://www.therishikesh.com/climate.php


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Year Temperature (0 C) Rainfall

Max Min (cm)

2005 37.2 2.8 189.38

2006 34.1 4.5 153.01

2007 34.6 1.7 217.33

2008 34.3 3.2 175.242009 35.1 4.8 113.54

2010 36.7 4.3 271.73

2011 36.2 3.9 190.01

2012 35.4 4.00 219.51

Table no.3.4.3 Temperature and rainfall recorded in Rajaji national park.

3.5. Flora of Rajaji National ParkRajaji National Park contains tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests,

in particular those of the Upper Gangetic Plains moist deciduous forests eco region.

The forest ecosystems of the Rajaji National Park are quite varied and diverse. A

general survey of the forests reveals some important types of plant associations:

Shorea, Mallotus andAdina community; Shorea, Terminalia andBridelia community;

Dalbergia, Acacia community; Syzygium, Phoebe and Drypetes community. The

tropical forest ecosystems of the park have many unique characteristics, which have

both scientific as well as practical significance for development. Based on thephysiognomy and floristic composition, the permanent vegetation of the park can be

grouped into following six types (Forest Survey of India,

Dehradun 1989).

Sal forest Mixed forest

Riverine forest Scrub forest Grassland Sub-tropical pine forest


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RNP contains following number of flora species

Sl.

No

Local Name Botanical Name

1 Jamun Syzygium cumini

2 Ber Zizyphus xylopyrus

3 Jangli aam Mangifera indica

4 Bismar Alangium lamarckii5 Pachnala Flacourtia cataphracta

6 Lassora Cordial myxa

7 Chilla Casearia tomentosa

8 Harar Terminalia chebula

9 Bahera Terminalia bellerica

10 Aonla/amla Emblica officinalis

11 Bargad Ficus benghalensis

12 Pipal Ficus religiosa

13 Sal Shorea robusta

14 Shisham Dalbergia sissoo

15 Tendu Diospyos montana

17 Tut nal Arundinella bengalensis

18 Ningalia Capilipedium assimile

19 Ghodia Chrysopogon fulvus

20 Piria Cymbopogon martinii

21 Nimbu grass Cymbopogon flexuosus

22 Lathi bans Dendrocalamus strictus

23 Love grass Eragrostis unioloides

Table no. 3.5 a general survey of the forests reveals some important types of plant

associations.

3.6. Fauna of Rajaji National ParkRajaji national park is an interesting animal habitat because of its location at the

meeting point of lesser Himalayan foothills and the beginning of the vast Indo-

Gangetic plains. The park has a large population ofelephants and leopards. The park

is the north-western limit of the distribution ofBengal Tigers andAsian Elephants in

India (1995, Fauna of Rajaji National Park, Zoological Survey of India, Calcutta).

Trees 128

Shrubs & herbs 63

Climbers 33

Grass 38


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Rajaji contains following number of fauna species.

Mammals 25

Reptiles 08

Amphibians 06

Fishes 09

Birds 315

Table no. 3.6 List of some major animals found in Rajaji National park

S.

NO

Common Name Zoological Name

1 Asian Elephant Elephas maximus

2 Wild pig Sus scrofa

3 Tiger Panthera tigris tigris

4 Leopard Panthera pardus

5 Leopard cat Prionailurus bengalensis

6 Jungle cat Felis chaus

7 Stripped hyena Hyanea hyanea

8 Asiatic jackal Canis aureus

9 Wild dog/ Dhole Cuon alpinus

10 Sloth bear Melursus ursinus

11 Himalayan /Asiatic bear Ursus thibetanus

12 Small Indian mongoose Herpestus auropunctatus

13 Indian grey mongoose Herpestus edwardsi

14 Fruit bat Rousettus leschenaulti

15 Indian fruit bat Pteropus giganteus17 Nilgai Boselaphus tragocamelus

18 Goral Namorhedus goral

19 Hog deer Axis porcinus

20 Indian muntjak Muntiacus muntjak

21 Chital Cervus axis

22 Sambar Rucervus unicolor

23 Rhesus macaque Macaca mulatta

24 Langur Presbytis entellus

25 Yellow throated martan Martes flavigula

26 Indian pangolin Manis crassicaudata

27 Monitor lizard Varanus albigularis

28 Grey Musk shrew Suncus murinus

29 Red giant squirrel Petaurista petaurista

30 Indian created porcupine Hystrix indica

31 Black napped hare Lepus nigricollis

32 Python Python molurus

33 Great Pied Hornbill Buceros bicornis

34 Himalayan Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis

35 Fire tailed sunbird Aethopyga ignicauda

36 King cobra Ophiophagus hannah
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varanus_albigularishttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varanus_albigularis


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3.7. Eco-tourism in Rajaji National Park and Wildlife conservationEvery year RNP is opened for tourists from 15

thof November to 15

thof June

and since last six years only three forest tracks remained open for tourists, one at

Chilla second at Motichur third Ramgarh. However, some of the areas inside the RNP

have number of tracks, which have huge potential for eco-tourism. Presence of mega-

fauna like tiger, leopard and elephants further ensure the feasibility of the area for

tourism. As most of the sites of RNP have a typical diversity of species as per

geographical locations (variations in landscape, vegetation and fauna), therefore, some

sites can be selected and diverted for eco-tourism purpose with controlled activities.

Elephant is one of the key attractions for tourists and during the period when

park remained open for tourists, elephants sighting is more common and just after

September onset of monsoon elephants starts migration towards higher elevations.

3.7.1.Religious Places within the Protected AreaReligious places like Goddess Mansa devi, Chandi devi, Sureshwari devi and

Bilkeshwar temples are situated in forest areas. The visiting devotees and workers of

the above-mentioned temples hinder elephants movement. Several times it was also

seen that many people enter the prohibited areas of the park and indulge in nefarious

activities. There are many instances when religious events on large scale are

organised. Hoards of visitors disturb elephants that come to drink water in the

afternoon hours. As per news paper reports more than forty lakh people visited

Hardwar area during Sawan Purnima and Kanwar Mela, which happens to fall in the

months of July and August. Many other religious places are also situated within the

park area it was also observed that in a few places elephants time budget has changed

causing irregularity in their natural activities.

3.7.2.Historical PlacesMany places of historical interest are present inside the park area like presence

of memorial of a female elephant (Rampyari) at Kansrao, which was constructed

during 1922, presence of antiquities at Gohri forest (Amla shroath), historical tale of


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Sonar Kothi hilltop and the history of various villages, which were once situated

inside the park and the historical wells, which were constructed before 1877.

3.7.3. Elephant SafariDespite jungle tour on jeep as major, wildlife safari on elephant is one of the

key attractions among tourists (especially international tourists). Elephant safari have

a huge potential to attract the tourists and in generating the revenue.

3.7.4. Bird WatchingRNP has huge potential for bird-watchers as number of migratory birds arrives

inside the park every year especially from October to March. Available literatureestimated that of the species, which breeds in Europe and northern part of Asia, about

40 percent are migrants. Most of the birds arrives from Europe, Russia, south-east

China, Northern part of America and some other countries having extreme cold

climatic conditions during winter (polar regions / north polar regions). Besides,

several birds also arrive and stay here from late October to March from higher

Himalayan regions of country (Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and high

altitude areas of Uttarakhand state).

Common Name Scientific Name

Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephale

Black Stork Cicinia nigra

Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferrugfnea

Mallard Anas platyrhnchos

Red Crested Poachard Netta rufina

Herring Gull Larus argentatus

Orange Gorgetted Flycatcher Muscicapa strophyianta

Himalayan Griffon Vulture Gyps himalayensis

Himalayan Pied Kingfisher Ceryle lugubris

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola

Golden Mountain Thrush Zoothere daume

Table no.3.8.4 some migrated birds species in Rajaji National Park


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METHODS

In order to achieve these mentioned objectives the following methods were used:

Questionnaire method: - This type of method is also known as primarysource Database as the information is collected from the staff members of Rajaji

National Park.

Literature method: - It can be also called as secondary source database, fromwhere the information and literature has been collected for the guidance.

Visit to selected site: - This method of study is direct visit on selected site to getmore practical knowledge.


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RESULT AND DISCUSSION

The Asian Elephant is the most important wild animal in park, and its number

in area has shown a steady increase over past 20 years. The Elephant population of

the park formerly used to vary with seasonal migration of considerable number

across the Ganges in both direction, but the construction of the Chilla power channel

in the mid1970s put a stop to this migration and effectively divided the population

into two independent units.

The Elephants are affluently in park since when created. Which after merge of

3 sanctuaries and declared National Park has become better place for the elephant as

their natural habitat, From beginning the population status has been under threat due

to habitat fragmentation and other anthropogenic activities that are directly

influencing elephant population and their habitats. However, different government

conservational measures and laws along with strict punishments have given a little

relief to these animals.

The last census was carried in year 2008which suggested total elephantpopulation as 418 and now in current year 2013, again census is being carried for

determining elephant population. From preliminary study of Rajaji National Park, It is

thought that the population has increased and the number is likely to go above 450.

In year 2002, Rajaji national park was also declared as an Elephant Reserve and

there started MIKE (Monitoring of Illegal Killing of Elephants) programme in 2003-

04, and they collect data all as regards an elephants from their territory on monthlybase and submit to Sub Regional Support Office for South Asia Programme located in

Delhi.


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Graph no.4.1 (a) illustrates Census report of Population of Elephant in Rajaji National

Park 1997- 2008

Graph no.4.1 (b) Show Gender-wise population report of elephants in Rajaji national

park

330

402

469

416 418

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

500

1997 2000 2003 2005 2008TOTALNUMBEROFPOPULATION

YEAR -WISE POPULATION REPORT

Report of Total Population of Elephants in Rajaji National

Park 1997- 2008

Report of Population

status of Elephant in

Rajaji National Park

1997- 2008

1997 2000 2003 2005 2008Male 96 118 115 106 99

Female 105 226 259 229 221

calf 62 58 95 81 98

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

T

OTALNUMBEROFGENDER-WISE

POPUATION

Report of Gender- wise elephants population in Rajaji

National park in year 1997-2008.

Male

Female

calf


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Table no.4.1 Exemplify population status report of Rajaji National park in year 1997-2008

4.2. Rajaji National Park elephant has been struggling with theircorridor.

Elephant cover long distances in search of food and water and being creatures

of habit and having strong instinctive memories, they prefer to take a known route

when passing from one habitat to the next. Unfortunately, most of these passages do

not exist anymore because of the development of towns, road and railway lines.

Only few passages remains that allow a precarious crossing for elephant. Rajaji

National park has been bifurcated by the development of human habitations along the

right bank of the Ganges and linear development such as NH72, railway lines and the

Chilla power channel. In the process of crossing, these elephant get into situation of

conflicts.

The movement of elephant has not been completely stopped by human

development. The two narrow passages remain between the eastern and western flanks

of park across the Ganges and are known as the ChillaMotichur and Ghori elephant

Corridor.

4.2.1. Chilla-Motichur CorridorThis corridor passes across NH 72 near the Motichur gate of the Park.

NH72 is a very busy road and according to a survey conducted recently, the average

number of motorized vehicles using the road is over 31000 per day. Even in number

of the night, more than 800 heavy vehicles pass through the road every hour. Apart

from the problem of a virtual wall of vehicles on road, the passage of elephants

through the Chilla-Motichur Corridor is also encumbered by the presence of Khand

S.No. Year Male Female calf Total

1 1997 96 105 62 330

2 2000 118 226 58 402

3 2003 115 259 95 469

4 2005 106 229 81 416

5 2008 99 221 98 418


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Gaon IIIa village established previously to rehabilitated the oustees of Tehri Dam

and Raiwala army ammunition dump.

To facilitate the safe passage of elephant in Chilla- Motichur elephant

corridor, the Honourable Supreme Court has issued directions through its order dated

07/01/2011 for the construction of a flyover for motor vehicles on NH 72 at

Motichur. A flyover of length 735m will be built over Motichurrau and part of the

road between Motichur gate and Raiwala railway station.

The following are a few of the things that the park management need to

consider with regard to the establishment of the Chilla- Motichur corridor:

i. The translocation of Khand Gaon -III from the Chilla- Motichur corridor tothe rehabilitation site at Lalpani compartment No. 2 in Dehradun Forest

Division has to be completed within the first 2 year of the plan period.

ii. Walls need to be built along NH72 and on the boundary of Khand Gaon-IIVillages in order to channelize the from straying onto the national highway or

into the village.

iii. A plan must be prepared for the recovery and strengthening of the corridorand all work must be done in accordance with the corridor Recovery and

Strengthening plan.

4.2.2. Ghori corridorThis corridor too links the eastern and the western flanks of the Park and is

aligned along through the song river, which emerges from the park near the Nepali

Farm and flows into the Ganges near Mafi village with some management

intervention; this corridor has the potential to serve as a viable alternative to Chilla-

Motichur Corridor.

A few of the measure that need to be undertaken to realize the full potential of

this corridor are listed here:

i. Install screens on both sides of the road bridge over the Song River tominimize the impact of light and sound from the motor vehicles on the

animals passing under the bridge.


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ii. Undertake river bank stabilization work on the song River and the Ganges bybuilding a combination of wall and spurs along the banks so that a narrow

strip with vegetation cover can develop along the river, which can be used by

animals to move along the corridor.

iii. Provide vegetative cover on banks of the Song River and the Ganges.iv. Establish anti poaching camps at a suitable location.

4.3. Train accidents records of elephant in Rajaji Park.The length of Haridwar-Dehradun railway line passing through the dense forest

of Haridwar, Motichur and Kansrao Ranges, from 1987 to 2002, 22 elephants have

been killed in this section of railway line. Recently 2 more elephants smacked on the

Haridwar railway line range.

The dates and location of such accidents are provided in the table

S.No. Date of

accident

Details of the

Elephant involved

No. Of

Animals

involved

Location Range

1. 28 April 1987 Female, 13 years 1 Railway line Motichur Motichur

2. 16 March 1988 Female,30 years 1 Railway line Motichur Motichur

3. 24 Feb 1989 Male juvenile, 4years

1 Kansrao railway line Kansrao

4. 1 January1992 Female, 80 years 1 Johra compartment

No.1 Motichur

Motichur

5. 2 May 1992 Female, 45 years 1 Khadkhadi, Hariwar Hariwar

6. 2 May 1992 Male calf, 5 years 1 Khadkhadi, Hariwar Hariwar

7. 2 May 1992 Female calf,4 years 1 Khadkhadi, Hariwar Hariwar

8. 2 May 1992 Female, 35 years 1 Khadkhadi, Hariwar Hariwar

9. 22 November1992

Female,30 years 1 Railway line Motichur Motichur

10. 10 May 1994 Male, 8 years 1 Kansrao railway line Kansrao

11. 17 May 1994 Male, 55 years 1 Jamunkhatta

compartment No. 4

Motichur

12. 28 September1998

Female calf, 1 years 1 Suswa compartmentNo.1

Kansrao


Female 40 years 1 Suswa compartmentNo.1

Kansrao


Female,8 years 1 Suswa compartmentNo.1

Kansrao

15. 3 April 1999 Female, 30 years 1 Railway line Motichur Motichur

16. 2 May 2000 Female, 18 years 1 Khadkhadi,CompartmentNo.1B,Haridwar

Haridwar

17. 4 June 2000 Male, 10 years 1 Suswa compartment

No.3

Motichur


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18. 29 May 2001 Female, 15 years 1 Khadkhadi,CompartmentNo.1B,Hariwar

Haridwar

19. 25 January 2002 Female calf, 3 years 1 Khadkhadi North Beat,Haridwa

Haridwar

20. 12 March 2002 Male calf,5 years 1 Railway trackHaridwar

Haridwar

21. 13 January 2013 Female, 15 years 1 Khadkhadi,CompartmentNo.1B,Haridwar

Haridwar

22. 13 January 2013 Female 10,withfoetus

1 Khadkhadi,CompartmentNo.1B,Haridwar

Haridwar

Table no. 4.3 Train accidents records of Elephants in Rajaji National Park

Graph no 4.3 Train accidents records of Elephants in Rajaji National Park

The chances of rail hit of elephant are very high between Haridwar, Motichur

and Kansrau railway station as maximum. Movement of trains on this section of the

line coincides with the time for the elephant to go the across the line in search water

and for crop raiding. Most of the accidents (80%) happened in summer between

January and June by night bound trains.

Haridwar Motichur Kansrau

Male 0 2 1

Female 6 5 2

Calf 2 0 2

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

NUMBEROFELEPHNAT'SDIED

Train accident records of elephant's in Rajaji nationalpark

1987-2013


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4.4.Role of Government of India and Wildlife Trust of India is supportingfor minimizing Train collision with elephant in Rajaji National Park.

Result oriented to effort, made by field staff of the Park, with the active support

of the Wildlife Trust of India, after 2002, there has been no accident involving

elephant on this section of Railway line.( But recently in January 2013, 2 elephant

died due to bad weather condition).

Every day between 5:00pm and 11:30pm and from 4:00am to 7:00am, the Park

staff patrol the railway line and warn the loco-pilot of the coming train through a well

set up communication network. Apart from warning the incoming train, they also

chase away the elephant from the railway line. Though this involves lot of difficult

and dangerous hard labour of the staff, it has proven to be very effective in avoiding

accidental death of elephant on the railway line in the Park.

Though the foot-patrolling system of providing protection to Elephants on the

railway line have given excellent results so far, it might not be as effective when the

frequency of train movement on this line increases Or the line is upgraded for electric

trains or the line is doubled. It is therefore important to design an electronic warning

system to warn train drivers about the presence of elephants close to the railway line,

say a kilometre before the train reaches the spot. Alternatively, an electronic Elephant-

Driving Unit that gets activated on the arrival of a train if and when Elephants are near

the line should also be devised.

The foot-patrolling system has not been found to be effective in stopping

accidents involving smaller animals. Every year the Park loses a number of leopards,

Sambar, pythons, Wild Pigs, and other smaller animals on the railway tracks. Therailway authorities have been requested not to allow the passengers to throw any

eatables from trains when they are passing through the Park as the food often attracts

animals onto the track, where they meet with accidents.

Some of the things that need to be done to avoid accidents on the railway lines

that pass through the Park are listed below:

i. Continue the foot patrolling of the sensitive sections of the18 Km section of

railway line with in the Park as described above.


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ii. Limit the speed of the trains to be low a manageable limit so that the train can

be brought to a halt immediately.

PICTURE NO.4.4 Illustration of Message sending channel from foot patrolling team to train driver

iii. Design and install an electronic system (thermal cameras) that not only warns

the loco-pilots about the presence of elephants on or close to the railway track but

also emits a sound that frightens the elephants away from the track.

iv. Build level crossings across the railway track in sections which the elephants

are known to cross frequently.

v. Maintain a clear, vegetation-free strip of width 20m on both sides of the railway

track to provide a clear view for the animals and the loco-pilots.

vi. Ensure that no eatables or other garbage is thrown on or near the railway track

inside the Park as the food materials attract the animals to the tract where they fall

victim to rail hit.

4.4.1.New trends followed to avoid elephant deathIn 19 January 2013, meeting took place under Director of Rajaji National Park

and other senior officer, where were declared around eco sensitive zone in park whereare mostly rail accident happened. Rail line across Kansrao, Motichur and Haridwar

ranges.

i.Patrolling team has cell phone or wireless set well connect with controlroom that mounted in Motichur. Thereby in case elephant movement on rail

line then, patrolling team immediately informs to control room through

SMS or wireless and control room also well communicate with station

master cell phone number or wireless at time. for Instance if an elephant is

Night

Patrollingteam

Controlroom in

range office

Stationmaster

Enginedriver


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close to 250 meters away from the train, then patrolling team head sends

SMS Red and 250 to 500 meter elephant or their herd exist then they send

SMS Blue.

ii.Patrolling team has movement register in range office where they mentionabout their movement and trains report.

Register format: -

Name of patrolling parties.......................

Name of Range...............................

Name of patrolling parties member......................

Date Time Detail of animal view on railtrack

Detail of Train SendingInformation

AboutTrack

Name ofanimal

Red/Blue Speed Headlight

BlowingWhistling

SMS Wireless


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CONCLUSION

While carrying my study, I went to Motichur Range and realized that

elephants faced many obstacles for their conservation in Rajaji National Park. They

have been struggling for thriving in their habitat for past several decades.

Due to habitat threat and the other anthropogenic activities elephant population

has declined in status. However, the numerous attempts of the Government of India

and efforts of NGOs have given a relief to elephant and continuous vigil has provided

a protective cover to them.

Since year 2002, there is no elephant mortality due to trains because of a Rapid

Action Project undertaken by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) which studied the

problem and suggested solutions that led to steps that ensured no elephant deaths on

the track. My study suggests that a little bit of care along with technology

development and the original natural living systems can be reviewed back. The Rajaji

example is now being replicated in other areas with similar problem.

Overall the progress is good but slow, however, it is better to be late than

never.

Conserve nature and all natural resources because all human life is dependent

on it. Join hands to protect all the gift of nature bestowed on humans.


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REFERENCES

1. Bist, S.S. (2002) Elephant conservation in India - an overview. Gajah 25:27-37.Choudhury (1999) Status and conservation of the Asian elephant Elephas

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