Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary

SOMESHWARA WILD LIFE SANCTUARY

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary has been named after Lord Someshwara, the presiding deity of the famous Someshwara temple

located within the limits of the sanctuary

Vision

To conserve the biodiversity of Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary

with local cooperation and develop facilities for protection

and habitat improvement for the survival of wildlife.

Key Objectives

To conserve the biodiversity and wildlife of the sanctuary

To minimise the man animal conflict

To provide necessary facilities for protection and development

of wildlife involving the local community participation

Encourage eco tourism for public and school children’s to create

awareness on environment and forest

A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T S

Kudremukh wildlife Division lies in the heart of Western Ghats. It

comprises of Kudremukh National park, Someshwara wildlife sanctuary, and

Mookambika Wildlife sanctuary. Sri Ambady Madhav, IFS, the then Deputy

Conservator of Forest, Kudremukh Wildlife Division, Karkala had prepared first

management plan for the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary in the year 1996 for

5 years (1996-2001). Sri. K.N. Murthy, IFS, prepared the 2nd management plan

for 6 years (2004-2010). I thank all other senior officials for contributing

their ideas, information and valuable efforts for preparing the management

plan.

I sincerely thank Sri. S. Shanthappa, IFS, Conservator of Forests,

Mangalore Circle, Mangalore for his outstanding guidance and unstinted

support in preparing the menu script.

I gratefully, acknowledge Sri P. Suresh Shetty A.C.F., Wildlife Sub

division, Kundapura. and Sri Lohith RFO, Someshwara Wildlife Range, Hebri. and

their staff who enthusiastically participated in this revision work by providing

information and many valuable suggestions. I have a great deal to all those

scientist and academicians and office staff whose hard work has contributed

substantially to this management plan.

Date : 30-10-2010 ( PRAKASH. S. NETALKAR, I.F.S., )

Place : Karkala Deputy Conservator of Forests,

Kudremukh Wildlife Division,

KARKALA.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

VISION STATEMENT

MAP OF THE SANCTUARY

PART – I - THE PROTECTED AREA: THE EXISTING SITUATION

CHAPTER – I INTRODUCTION TO THE AREA - 1-2

CHAPTER – II THE TRACT DEALT WITH - 3-6

CHAPTER – III FLORA AND FAUNA - 7-12

CHAPTER – IV HISTORY OF MANAGEMENT AND

PRESENT PRACTICES

-

13-21

CHAPTER – V BASIS OF PROPOSALS - 22-29

PART – II- PROPOSED MANAGEMENT

CHAPTER – VI THREAT ANALYSIS - 30-32

CHAPTER – VII PLAN OBJECTIVES - 33-34

CHAPTER – VIII THE STRATEGIES - 35-41

CHAPTER – IX HABITAT PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT

-

42-46

CHAPTER – X ECO-TOURISM AND CONSERVATION EDUCATION

-

47-50

CHAPTER – XI ECO-DEVELOPMENT & PUBLICITY - 51-54

CHAPTER – XII RESEARCH, MONITORING AND

TRAINING

- 55-56

CHAPTER – XIII BUDGET AND PROGRAMME OF

WORKS

- 57-58

ANNEXURES

ANNEXURE - I - Facsimile of the later notification of Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary

ANNEXURE – II - Village survey number wise details of lands that

constitute the protected area (PA)

ANNEXURE – III - List of flora found in the Sanctuary

ANNEXURE – III(a) - List of species of plants found in the sanctuary

Research done by Dr. G.R.Hegde, Professor and

Chairman, P.G.Department of Studies in Botany, Karnataka University, Dharwad.

ANNEXURE – IV - List of all the plantations raised so far in the

sanctuary

ANNEXURE – V - List of fauna found in the sanctuary

ANNEXURE – VI - List of Avifauna in the sanctuary

ANNEXURE – VII - Description of all the blocks and compartments

and their allotment to the beats and sections concerned

ANNEXURE – VIII - List of patrolling tracks and trekking path

ANNEXURE – IX - List of buildings pertaining in to the sanctuary

ANNEXURE – X - List of ponds in side the Sanctuary

ANNEXURE – XI - List of watchtowers, wireless towers, entry

barriers, etc.,

ANNEXURE – XII - Summary of expenditure of the PA for the last 5

years

ANNEXURE – XIII - List of Enclosures

ANNEXURE - XIV - Abstract of licensed gun holders

ANNEXURE – XV - Fire crises management

ANNEXURE - XVI - List of required executive staff

ANNEXURE – XVII -

Demographic information of the zone

Survey of the villages inside the Someshwara

Wildlife Sanctuary done in the year 2002.

Demographic details of such villages

ANNEXURE – XVIII - List of all medicinal plants found in the Sanctuary

Research done by Sri. Beguru D. Prakash, Lecturer, Alvas College, Moodabidre.

ANNEXURE - XIX - List of all Ferns found in the Sanctuary

A study done with the help of botanist Dr.

K.G.Bhat, Rtd. Professor, Poornaprajna College,

Udupi

ANNEXURE - XX - The list of do’s and don’ts for the tourists while

entering into the sanctuary.

ANNEXURE – XXI - The programme of works indicating the year,

quantity of work and their financial implications

PLATES

1. A map of the sanctuary showing different reserved forests- Plate – 1.

2. Vegetation map of the sanctuary Plate – 2

3. Organisational flow chart Plate –3

4. A miniature map of the area organisation Plate –4

5. Infrastructure map plate _5

6. A map of the existing &proposed areas is furnished in Plate -6

7. The sanctuary has been divided into zones for the purpose of

management as indicated in the map in plate – 7

8. Eco sensitive zone map and section Map in plate – 8

9. Section maps showing different types of works proposed are

furnished in Plates 9-10

TABLES:

1 TABLE : 1 List of Reserved Forests of Someshwara Wildlife

Sanctuary:

2 TABLE: 2 List of research plots inside the sanctuary :

3 Table : 3 Statement showing the details of research

conducted for the last ten years (From 1998-99 to 2007-08) at Someshwar wildlife sanctuary

4 Table :4 Offence cases in Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary

5 Table : 5 Compensation paid details for last 5 years within the sanctuary

6 Table : 6 Weapon details

7 Table : 7 List of EDC plantations in the sanctuary

1

1.1.1 – Name, location, constitution and extent:

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary has been named after Lord Someshwara,

the presiding deity of the famous Someshwara temple located within the limits of

the sanctuary. It was notified as wildlife sanctuary by Government of Karnataka

vide notification No.AFD.51.FWL.74, dated : 05-06-1974 and confirmed vide

government notification no.FFD.51.FWL.76, dated : 12-10-1979.

Facsimile of the later notification is furnished at ANNEXURE - I.

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Karkala and Kundapur taluks

of Udupi district in Karnataka state. It lies between 130 29’ and 130 36’ north

latitude and 740 50’ and 750 05’ east longitude. The sanctuary is spread over

86.99 sq. kms. The sanctuary is constituted by eight reserved forests and a

district forest as mentioned below :-

TABLE : 1 – List of Reserved Forests of Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary:

Sl.

no.

Name of the

reserved forest

Extent

(acres) Notification number Taluk

BLOCK – A

1 Ballimane RF 10756.80 G.O.No.1035 Rev, dated :

10-10-1900

Kundapur

2 Old Someshwara RF 2095.23 G.O.No.22, dated :

14-02-1907

Karkala

3 New Someshwara RF 2477.40 G.O.No.129 Rev, dated :

19-01-1907

Karkala

4 Jatkatmale RF 1294.70 G.O.No.370 Rev, dated :

13-06-1899

Karkala

5 Mavinakodlu RF 1416.40 G.O.No.664 Rev, dated :

29-09-1899

Karkala

BLOCK – B

6 Thenkahola RF 2199.28 G.O.No.317 Rev, dated :

14-04-1891

Karkala

7 Matkalgudde RF 291.80 G.O.No.71 Rev, dated :

26-01-1899

Karkala

8 Jomblukadu RF 550.00 G.O.No.AFO 76/39/8,

dated : 10-06-1984

Karkala

9 Chara Block I & II 414.00 Not declared as RF Karkala

Total : 21495.61 acres or 8699.15 ha.

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, Management Plan January 2011 to December 2015

-2-

Ballimane and New Someshwara reserved forests

belonging to ‘block – A’ in the notification provide rich

green clothing to the slopes of the Western Ghats.

Areas constituting Block – B are actually small and

disjointed reserved forests of small hectare

surrounded by heavy habitations. Local public and

their animals use these areas regularly. The

sanctuary consists of tropical evergreen, semi

evergreen and moist mixed deciduous forests

A map of the sanctuary showing different reserved forests is

furnished at Plate – 1. Village survey number wise details of lands that

constitute the protected area (PA) are furnished at ANNEXURE - II

1.2.1– Approach and access:

The district head quarter as well as nearest railway station is at Udupi, 35

kms away from the sanctuary. Port town of Mangalore is about 90 kms from the

sanctuary. Nearest Airport is Bajpe - about 75 kms from the sanctuary. Plenty

of private buses ply through the sanctuary, especially mini busses connecting

Udupi and Shimoga towns via Hebri and Agumbe. All weather roads connect the

sanctuary. It is about 35 kms from Karkala, the Divisional forest head quarters.

1.2.3 Statement of significance

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary has semi-evergreen and evergreen

forests. Machilus Macrantha, Lophopetalum wightianum and Artocarpus hirsuta

are some of the species of flora found in this sanctuary. Mammals in the

Someshwara Wildlife sanctuary include Tiger, Leopard, Wild Dog, Jungle cat, Wild

Pig, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Common otter, Wild Dog, Jackal, Gaur, Barking Deer,

Lion Tailed Macaque, Bonnet Macaque, Palms Civet and Common Langur. Reptiles

are represented by King Cobra, Python and Monitor lizard. Someshwara Wildlife

sanctuary also houses some interesting birds like Malabar trogon, Ceylon

frogmouth, Malabar pied hornbill and Malabar whistling thrush

Bamboo Plant


-3-

2.1.1 –External Boundaries:

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary consists of two blocks of forests,

the boundaries of which are fully described at Annexure - I. Boundaries

are distinct and well maintained. It starts near the common boundary of

Tombattu and Ballimane RF on the northwest and travels about 7 km east

along the northern boundary of Ballimane RF; then turns south and

travels along the ridge line up to the 7th curve in the Agumbe ghat road;

then travels west almost along the state highway till very close to Hebri

township and then turns towards north and passes through the western

boundary of Jatkatmale, Mavinakodlu and Ballimane RFs to join the

starting point.

2.1.2 – Geology, rock and soil:

The sanctuary covers western slopes

of Western Ghats. Terrain is hilly and very

undulating. Underlying geological formation

is of archaic origin. Ghat forests are

principally of gneissic composition,

interspersed occasionally by quartzite, mica-

schist and granite, out crops of which, occur

in long stretches along the sharp edges of

the ghats. Upper reaches of ghats, which

form eastern boundary of the sanctuary

consist predominantly of rock precipices and are completely inaccessible

from Agumbe up to a place called Hosaghatta, a distance of 10 kms.

These rock cliffs are very steep and exposed over long stretches. Wild

plantain and grass slips are nested in them.


-4-

Peculiar feature of gneiss found here is its readiness to decompose

into reddish clay, which after exposure forms into hard brittle substance

known as laterite. Laterite is found along the plains and foothills of this

tract. Presence of large quantities of ferruginous matter is another

characteristic feature of this gneiss. Quartz is frequently identifiable in

the original rocks in the foothills and to a lesser extent in the plains. It is

found as separate nodules or small crystals. The foothill portions are

characterized by soft laterite formed by the decomposition of original

gneissic rock. This brownish friable loam, often reaches to a considerable

depth and is an indication of the capacity of the soil to support good

deciduous or semi-evergreen forests. The underlying rock is invariably

gneiss, sometimes outcropping in the form of boulders. In the plain

portions, the rock is decisively lateritic.

Soil conditions vary in quality, depth and consistency. On the

ghats, soil is dark or brownish loam of moderate depth, admixed with

gneissic or quartzite boulders. Humus and undecomposed vegetable

matter is in plenty. Foothill portions contain fairly deep brownish friable

clayey loam covered by a moderately thick layer of decomposed and

undecomposed vegetable matter, which is rich in organic constituents.

Surface soil in the plains and littoral portions consists of gravel or

disintegrated laterite, covering a hard lateritic pan. In the neighborhood

of villages, forest soils are much impoverished by the heavy demands of

ryots for mulch; both dry and green, for manure. Deep reddish loamy

soil, rich with humus, occurring at foothills supports fairly good deciduous

and semi-evergreen forests.

2.1.3 – Terrain:

Terrain is hilly and very undulating in Ballimane and New

Someshwara RFs. It is almost plain in the rest of the reserved forests.

The sanctuary starts from the rocky cliffs atop the ridge of Western Ghats

and flows over the foothills on to the coastal plain over a short distance.


-5-

2.1.4 – Rainfall and climate:

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary experiences the southwest

monsoon to the fullest extent. It generally breaks early June and lasts till

the end of September or early October. Highest rainfall is received in July

and August. Breaks in monsoon, lasting 10-15 days are not uncommon.

Northeast monsoon is much less intensive than the southwest

monsoon. The precipitation is chiefly confined to afternoons in October

and November months. Total annual rainfall is very high, reaching its

maximum at Agumbe (about 6000 - 8000 mm/annum), which is known

as the “Chirrapunji of south”. The sanctuary receives slightly less

amount of rainfall. Rainfall of last 10 years recorded at Seethanadi

is furnished in the following bar chart:

2.1.5 – Temperature:

Weather is cooler during monsoon and up to December. It

becomes increasingly hot and sultry from January onwards till the onset

of southwest monsoons. Due to the proximity to sea, the diurnal changes

in temperature are low and extremes never occur. Temperature generally

varies between 200 - 350 C in the sanctuary.

R AIN F AL L D AT A OF S E E T H AND I

3886

4678

3321

3638

4634

4081

49265066

4068

5417

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

RAIN FALL DATA OF SOMESHWARA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY


-6-

2.1.6 – Humidity:

Climate is humid and warm throughout the year because of the

proximity to sea. In the ghats and foothills, weather is usually misty

during the early hours of the day.

2.1.7 – Wind speed:

Generally wind speed is not very high except during monsoons.

Occasionally pre-monsoon whirlwind causes damage to the forest. Many

trees get uprooted and limbs get broken.

2.1.8 – Drought and its periodicity:

The sanctuary does not face any threat of droughts. Some times

scarcity of water is felt in the sanctuary due to long dry spell of about six

months from November to May.

2.1.9 – Water sources:

The sanctuary is drained by Seethanadi river and nalas like

Narasipura hole, Golihole etc. Good number of their tributaries originate

in and flow through the sanctuary in east – west direction. Seethanadi

has its sources in the ghats

beyond Someshwara, the upper

reaches of which are clothed

heavily with forest of

Someshwara reserve.

There is no problem of

water during rainy season as all

the rivers, streams and nalas

flow to full brim. Water

becomes scarce from January to mid April – i.e. till pre-monsoon showers.

Because of excessive logging in the past, water is one of the limiting

factors, particularly in the plains of the sanctuary. A number of artificial

ponds and gully checks were constructed to augment and improve the

water resources especially along the foothills.


Seethanadi River, Hebri

-7-

3.1.1 – Vegetation ;

Vegetation type and its distribution

vary from place to place depending on

soil, its depth, elevation and the level of

human interference. Hill slopes have rich

evergreen and semi evergreen forests.

Balige (Poeciloneuron indicum) is found

gregariously at higher elevations. Semi-

evergreen and mixed moist deciduous

forests are found in the logged foothills and plains. Degraded forests

occur in the heavily logged Mavinakodlu RF and around habitations. There

are some plantations of Ailanthus malabarica, teak and Eucalyptus at the

foothills and plains, especially in Tenkahola RF.

3.1.2- Forest types :

Forest types in the protected area are varied and rich. Moist

deciduous forests occur at lower altitude, especially the foothills. West

coast semi-evergreen and west-coast tropical evergreen forests occur at

mid altitudes. Composition of these forests is as under as per Champion &

Seth classification.

Different forest types found in the sanctuary are as under :

3.1.3 – Tropical wet-evergreen forests (IA/C4):

This is the most significant forest type found north of Hanja

enclosure and on hill slopes above 300 meters above mean sea level.

Important species found in the top canopy are Calophyllum, Artocarpus,

Dipterocarpus, Hopea, Lophopetalum, Poeciloneuron, Bischofia etc.

Middle canopy consists of Myristica, Caryota, Elaeocarpus, Schleichera,

Aporosa etc. Lower canopy is occupied by a large number of species,

which are known for their medicinal value. Climbers, canes and reeds are

not uncommon. Trees are very tall and majestic. Crowns are narrow.

The boles and trunks are swathed by a mat of mosses, orchids, ferns etc.


Butterflies

-8-

3.1.4 – West coast semi-evergreen forests (2A/C2) :

These forests are found in lower slopes below 300 meter mean sea

level. In this type there is a more liberal admixture of evergreen and

deciduous species in the top canopy. Species generally occurring in the

top canopy are Terminalia, Lagerstroemia, Machilus, Syzygium,

Lophopetalum, Mangifera, Vitex, Artocarpus, Hopea etc. Lower

canopy consists of Holigarna, Fagara, Dillenia, Cinnamomum, Aporosa

etc. Niligirianthus (syn. Strobilanthes), Clerodendron, reeds, canes etc.,

form the ground cover.

3.1.5 – Southern secondary moist mixed deciduous forests

(3B/C2/2SI):

It is found over 80% of the sanctuary area especially on the

southern and western sides. This type occurs in plains and logged areas.

Common species found are Terminalias, Bombax ceiba, Mangifera indica,

Dalbergia latifolia, Schleichera oleosa, Dillenia pentagyna, Adina

cordifolia, Alstonia scholaris sp etc. Lower canopy consists of Careya

arborea, Emblica officinalis, Strychnos nux-vomica, Aporosa sp etc.

Undergrowth consists of Clerodendron infrotunatum, Niligirianthus (syn.

Strobilanthes), Eupatorium, Acacia, Ziziphus sp etc.

List of flora is furnished in ANNEXURE – III. Vegetation map

of the sanctuary is furnished on Plate - 2. List of species of plants

are indicated in ANNEXURE III(a)

3.1.6 – Plantations:

Parts of Tenkahola, Mavinakodlu, Ballimane, New Someshwara and

Jatkatmale RFs were clear felled and plantations of teak and softwood

species were raised in the past. Ailanthus and Eucalyptus were raised

from 1946 to 1977. The sanctuary has 827.50 ha. of teak plantation.

List of all the plantations raised so far is furnished in ANNEXURE–IV.

Of the softwood plantations raised in Mavinakodlu, Eucalyptus has

been exploited and the remaining growth is reduced to scrub. Natural

regeneration of local species such as Aporosa, Syzygium, Terminalia,

Careya etc., is seen to appear in profusion in these plantations.


-9-

3.1.7 – Weeds :

Chromeolina (Syn. Eupatorium) odorata is the major weed. Its

density corresponds to the continuing disturbances to the site such as

fire, biotic interference, vehicular movement etc. The sanctuary has a

number of Ailanthus and teak plantations, which were raised after

burning. Such plantations are even today bereft of any natural woody

vegetation. Grasses occupy some open areas. Consequently these places

attract more cattle and wild herbivores. Increased interference fosters

vigorous weed growth to the disadvantage of grasses. Where the site

was left to regenerate naturally after clear felling, coppice growth has

come up in profusion and occupied the canopy almost completely. Where

soil was shallow and laterization intense, small openings continue to exist

free of weeds. They are the favorite grazing grounds of chital.

Lantana is generally not found in the sanctuary.

3.1.8-Species and communities of conservation importance, key areas.

Fauna :

The type of animals found in a given area is the function of its

existing plant communities which in turn are governed by geo-

morphology of soil, climate and rainfall conditions. Someshwara Wildlife

Sanctuary is home to a wide range of wild animals generally found in

South India.

Fauna found in the sanctuary are as follows. Detailed list is

enclosed in Annexure V.

3.1.9 Prey animals :

a) Spotted deer (Axis axis) : These animals prefer somewhat open forest areas.

They are found in southern and western parts of the sanctuary . They are normally

seen in Mudagalpare, Chottor, Jannalane, Gundubereu, Harmannupare reserves

and also in older cashew plantation areas near Alur. Normally they are noticed in

groups of 5 to 8.


-10-

b) Sambar (Cervus unicolor) : Sambar is found unevenly distributed over the

sanctuary. It inhabits slopes containing thick jungle mixed with open grasslands.

They are found in herds of 3 to 5.

c) Gaur or Indian bison (Bos gaurus) : This animal

is found all over the sanctuary. Its presence is

common along the eastern boundary of the sanctuary.

It is normally noticed in groups 5 to 10. during

summer, they are seen in early morning or twilight

hours grazing in the grasslands. Crop raids are

common along the southwest. Indian Gaur (Bison)

d) Indian wild boar (Sus serofa) : Wild boar is commonly seen all over the

sanctuary. They are the common pests to agricultural crops.

e) Indian porcupine (Hystrix indica) : These rodents prefer rocky hill sides and

are normally sighted along hill ridges and foothills.

f) Indian hare (Lepus nigricelis) : Found commonly all over the sanctuary.

g) Barking deer or Muntjac (Muntiacus muntjac) : This sanctuary is an ideal

habitat for these animals. Normally found in dense forests, it comes out to open

for grazing and browsing in the nights. It is timid and shy animal.

h) Mouse deer (Tragulus meminna) : It is seldom found in forests.

i) Common Langur (Presbytis entellus) : This arboreal mammal is normally

seen in dense forest. Population density is very thin.

j) Bonnet macaque (Macaca radiata) : This arboreal mammal is found in the

edges along roads and enclosures. They do not enter interior forests, as do the

common langurs.

k) Lion tailed macaque (Macaca silenus) : This is an endangered primate found

only in dense evergreen forests of mid western ghats at an altitude of 400 to 700

meters above mean sea level. It is found in groups of 5 to 10. They are reported

from the Agumbe Ghats and Balmane section. As per the 2006 study report taken

up by this division it is found that there are 4 groups of LTM and numbering 32

compared to their number 51 in the year 1985 (karanth)


-11-

l) King cobra is often sighted around “Someshwara” and along the banks

of Seethanadi particularly during summer.Because of its common sighting

the Agumbe rainforest research station has come up in Agumbe to

study about its behaviour and activities.

Jackals are the chief scavengers of the sanctuary. Seethanadi,

Golihole and some of the other big streams form the aquatic habitat of

the sanctuary. They contain the rare Mahasheer fish and otters.

Other animals found :

Gaint squirrel (Ratufa indica) : It is an

arboreal mammal normally restricted to the

relatively undisturbed areas of the forests. Most of

the time the animal is found on the tree crowns in

the dense forests. Flying squirrel (Benus

hylopeteres), Land monitor lizard (Varanus grisens),

Tortoises also occur in the sanctuary. Cane turtle – a

rare species, which is on the verge of extinct, is seen rarely.

Avifauna :

The sanctuary has a good population of a variety of birds typical to the

western ghats of Karnataka. Avifauna found in the

Sanctuary include Jungle myna, Peafowl, Common fowl,

Common myna, Red vented bulbul, Little cormorant,

Cattle egret, Little egret, Black drongo, Jungle crow, Crow

pheasant, White cheeked bulbul, Brahminy kite, Grey

jungle fowl, Pea fowl, White breasted water hen, Red

wattled lapwinger, Spotted dove, Blue rock pigeon, White

breasted king fisher, Malabar grey hornbill, Golden backed threetoed wood pecker,

Scarlet minicret, Ashy swallow shrike, Paradise fly catcher, Magpie robin, Taylor

bird, Purple sunbird, White backed munia, Golden oriole. Great Indian Hornbill

is sighted near Seethanadi Nature Camp.

List of Avifauna is furnished at ANNEXURE –VI.


-12-

3.1.10 – Forage available:

Food and forage are available in abundance till the end of

December or early January. Scarcity of fodder for the animals is felt

during the dry season from February to the onset of monsoon. Most of

the minor forest produce like nelli, myrobolans, leaves, fruits and flowers

form the food for many wild animals and birds. Unfortunately some of

these products also have commercial value and therefore extracted by

locals for the market. Thus the animals and birds are deprived of their

legitimate food, especially during the pinch period.

Peculiar situation of fodder scarcity prevails towards the northern

part of the sanctuary. The entire area is full of thick evergreen forests and

therefore totally devoid of grasses. Herbivores find it a good habitat only

for the day and by night most of them pour out in to the adjoining rubber

estates and areca gardens along the western boundary. Areca gardens

are overgrown with fresh green grasses because of sprinkler irrigation.

Floor of the rubber estates is densely covered by creeper Peuraria

javanica which is a legume sown for controlling the weeds. It is very

palatable. Wild herbivores are tempted to visit the rubber estates

regularly and therefore the persistent complaints of crop raids especially

in Shedimane and Ballimane village limits.


-13-

4.1.1 – General:

As per the information available in working plans, indiscriminate

killing of tiger, guar, sambar and lion tailed macaque was in practice in

the past for pleasure, skin, claws, meat, trophy and medicines. As a

result, the number of wild animals dwindled and some species were on

the verge of extinction. With the enactment of Wildlife (Protection) Act,

1972 and increasing consciousness about nature conservation and wildlife

protection, poaching activities have come down drastically. It is observed

that the population of wild animals in the protected area is increasing as

experienced by their frequent sighting and indirect evidence such as cattle

kills, dung, scat etc.

4.1.2 – Silvicultural systems and tending operations:

Both selection and clear felling systems existed in the sanctuary

area in the past. Almost the entire plains and part of foothills were clear

felled and plantations of teak and softwood species raised on large scale

with varying degrees of success. Selection fellings for timber, sleepers

and plywood were carried out in the remaining parts of the sanctuary.

Although there is total cessation of commercial forestry including harvest

of NTFPs in the last 7-8 years, there is heavy pressure on the sanctuary

particularly for firewood, small timber and biomass requirements of the

surrounding villagers. At present, people are allowed to collect dry

firewood and leaf litter on head loads for domestic use.

4.1.3 – Administrative set up:

The sanctuary is managed by Range Forest Officer, Wildlife Range,

Someshwara supported by two foresters and five forest guards under the

guidance of Assistant Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Sub Division,

Kundapur. The Deputy Conservator of Forests, Kudremukh Wildlife

Division, Karkala is the controlling authority of the sanctuary.

Organisational flow chart is given in Plate – 3.


-14-

4.1.4 – Organisation of forest areas:

For the purpose of this management plan, the sanctuary is divided

in to ten compartments. Ballimane SF is divided in to four compartments

and the remaining six RFs are constituted in to one compartment each.

Natural features such as prominent streams, hill ridges, patrolling tracks

and high ways have been used as compartment boundaries. The beats

and sections are reconstituted so as to be co-terminus with the newly

constituted compartments. Description of all the blocks and

compartments and their allotment to the beats and sections

concerned is furnished in ANNEXURE – VII. Maps showing the

new arrangement have to be provided up to the beat

levelDemarcation of compartment boundary and beat boundary

has to be marked on the ground as per map. Beats and sections

have been reorganized in terms of the compartments as indicated

in the flow chart at Plate - 3. A miniature map of the area

organisation is provided at Plate – 4.

4.1.5 – Infrastructure development:

Patrolling tracks connecting

Bandimata of Old Someshwara to

Madamakki (6 km) and Dulli to

Jaddinagadde near Ballimane (17.5

km) have been formed and

maintained. A link track from

Shedimane (Menasinahadi) to

Ballimane, in turn connecting the

Dulli-Jaddinagadde track has also Patrolling track at Old Someshwara

been formed. These are the three major patrolling tracks, which cover

almost 90% of the sanctuary. The Bandimata–Madamakki game track is

meant for the use of tourists. Dulli-Jaddinagadde track is primarily for

protection purpose as it cuts through the length of the sanctuary in the

core area. 15 mini bridges and culverts have been constructed on these

tracks so as to be motorable throughout the year but these have been

damaged by the Naxalities and needs immediate repairs. List of patrolling

tracks and trekking path are furnished at ANNEXURE – VIII


-15-

Living accommodation has been provided for all the staff members.

However, some of the quarters require upgradation, addition of

bathrooms and toilets, water supply, electrification, etc. Anti poaching

camp shed is constructed at Hanja but is being destroyed by the

Naxalites. A few signboards have been provided all along the highways

but needs to add more to create awareness and has to be maintained

regularly. Wireless network with a repeater at Haddinabare was

established but again destroyed by the Naxalites and hence not working.

All the executive staffs were equipped with walkie talkies however are not

working without maintainance. Hence a provision has been made to

provide mobile sets to all the staff up to the guards level for better

communication. List of buildings pertaining in to the sanctuary is

furnished at ANNEXURE – IX.

Entry barriers:

Every patrolling track is provided with entry and exit barriers (Steel

gates). These are permanent structures with lock and key. Keys are

deposited with officers only. They are always maintained in closed and

locked condition. They should be greased and painted every year.

Vehicles:

One jeep is provided to Range Forest officer and one is provided to

Assistant Conservator of Forests. The vehicles are old and in poor

condition and hence needs replacements. There is no separate vehicle

meant for tourists exclusively. There is need for one more vehicle for the

tourists to go round the sanctuary and patrolling during the fire season.

The present Jeeps are 10 to 13 years old and hence the protection works

gets hampered. It is proposed to buy two new vehicles during the plan

period.

Watch towers:

There is one old watchtower–

near the Seethanadi Nature Camp. It is not

being maintained and therefore it is not in

good condition. Hence needs to be

maintained every year. Watch tower near Seethanadi


-16-

List of ponds is furnished at ANNEXURE –X. List of

watchtowers, wireless towers, entry barriers, etc., are furnished

at ANNEXURE – XI Infrastructure map is furnished in Plate – 5.

4.1.6 – Visitor Management and Conservation Education Tourism

The flow of tourists in the sanctuary has increased considerably and

the need for facilities is expected by the visitors to

this sanctuary. It is meant for tourist activities

like wildlife viewing, nature camps, picnic

spots, recreation and environmental

awareness etc. The Seethanadi Nature Camp is

situated on the bank of Seethanadi river and

4Kms away from the Hebri village. The Nature

Camp consists of a dormitory having 12 beds

and a cottage having 2 beds at Seethanadi

along with 2 pergolas. Ten numbers of Tents

are constructed which would be pleasure staying for tourists .

Tourists will be charged with an entry fee of Rs.40 for adults and

Rs.20 for children and halting fee and cost of food are separate as

per the order of Chief wild life warden . From July to September

river rafting will be carried out in Seethanadi river. It is located on

the Udupi-Agumbe state highway and is a resting place for the travellers,

and learn something about the nature during the resting time so as to

develop interest in Environmental conservation. It is a special attraction

for the student community and local clubs like Rotary, Lions, Jaycees etc.

The following facilities are available in the nature camp viz are

1. Reception counter.

2. Tents for stay

3. Antiskid path way to river.

4. Antiskid path way to tent base.

5. Paragola-2

6. Nature walk trail.

7. Herpito Trail

8. Bird’s trail.

9. Activity cum dining area.

10. Store room

11. Children adventure activity

games for age group 6 to 12

year


-17-

The sanctuary is surrounded by locally well

known tourist attractions like the Agumbe

Sunset viewpoint, Kudlu theertha falls ,Jomlu

Theertha falls, Vonkaobbaya falls, historical

Mooda Ganapathi temple, Agumbe evergreen

forests etc. The sanctuary offers good

opportunities to tourists, especially bird

watchers, nature lovers and trekkers. Now river rafting has also been

going on in Seethanadi river for tourists.

4.1.7 – Research, monitoring and training:

The Silviculturist, South zone, Madikere has the following research

plots inside the sanctuary :TABLE: 2 – List of research plots inside

the sanctuary :

Sl.

No. Year

Name of the

reserve forest

Extent

(in ha.) Species grown

1 1976 Ballimane RF 2.00 MFP & Evergreen species


3 1978 Someshwara Old 2.00 MFP & Evergreen species


5 1979 Someshwara New 2.80 MFP & Evergreen species

6 1984 Someshwara New 3.00 Teak

7 1986 Ballimane RF 5.00 Bamboo


9 1988 New Someshwara RF 2.00 MFP & Evergreen species

10 1989 Someshwara Old RF 2.25 MFP & Evergreen species



13 1991 Ballimane RF 2.00 Hopea weightiana

14 1992 Ballimane RF 5.00 Artocarpus lakoocha


-18-

Table : 3 Statement showing the details of research conducted for the last ten years (From 1998-99 to 2007-08) at Someshwar wildlife

sanctuary

Sl.

No Year Subject Person/Organization Period Remark

1 2007-08 Phyto-diversity

studies

Dr.G R Hegde,Prof

and Chairman, Department of

Botany,Karnataka University,Dharwada (Prakash)

2 Years

2 2007-08 DBT Project on mapping and

Quantitative assessment of Plant

Resource

Shri.Ganeshaiah, Coordinator,DBT

Project ,GKVK,Bangalore

2 Years

3 2007-08 Clarifying species

status of different morphotype langurs

Dr.K.Praveen

Karanth Asst Prof:CES IISc, Bangalore

2Year

4 2007-08 DNA bar coding of selected species of Karnataka

Dr.K.Praveen Karanth Asst Prof:CES IISc,

Bangalore

2Year

5 2008 Survey of Biological diversity in

Kudremukh Forest complex

DCF Kudremukh Wild Life Division,Karkal

(Karthik, Vasudevan, Mevasingh,V.R

Singh)

1 Year Studies completed

6. 2004 Study on Eco-

Tourism and Conservation with

Special reference of butterflies.

Sri T.V. Mohandas

IFS, Conservator of Forest and General

Manger KCDC Ltd. Mangalore.

5 Year

7. 2008 Documentry on King Cobra and king

cobra telementry Project.

Mr. Romulas Whitaker ICON

FILIMS, Bristol U.k.

10 Year

8. 2004-05 Semnopthceus

species namely S. hypole ulos, S

Dussumieri, S. Priam (Hanuman or common langur )of

south India.

Dr. R. Krishmani,

Director (Research) The Rain forest

Institute Coimbatore.

1 Year


-19-

9. 2005-06 Collection of Arctid

moths species from different localities of Karnataka.

Dr. Jagbir Singh

Kirti,Principal

Investigator

Department of Zoology

Punjabi University,

Patialia Punjab (Ratesh

Kumar)

1 Year

10 2006-07 a) An assessment of

anuran deformities and

identification of their

casual mechanism in

some protected areas of

central Western Ghats.

b) Pattern in the plant

species richness and

diversity in Forestry

Fragments of Western

Ghats in Karnataka.

Dr, V.B. Mather, Dean

Faculty of Wildlife

Seciences Wildlife

Institute of India

Dehardun.

7 Months

11 2006 Survey of Hornbills and endemic birds at KNP, Someshwara &

Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Dr. T.R. Shankar Raman & Dr. Divya Muddappa, Ecologist,

Nature Conservation Foundation, Mysore.

1 Month

12 2005-06 Survey on Malabar Civit for conservation

purpose in various park & Sanctuaries of Karnataka.

N.V.K. Ashraf, Director, Wildlife

rescue Wildlife trust of India, New Delhi (Sidharth Rao)

2 Year

13. 2007-08 DNA barcoding of selected species of

Karnataka

Dr. Praveen Karanth IISc, Bangalore.

2 Years

14 2007-08 Clarifying species

status of different morphotypes of

langours

Chetan Nag.K.S. IISc

Bangaore

2 Years

Population estimation of Lion tailed macaque was carried out by Sri. V.R

Singh I.F.S. and others and a brief summary of the findings is given below.

The western Ghats harbours a remarkable Diversity of plant and animal life

because of which the hills have been recognized as one of eight hotspots’ of

biodiversity in the world (Myers et al.,2000).

The most conspicuous of the arboreal mammals are several species of non-

human primates including the Lion-tailed macaque Macaca silenus, Nilgiri

langur Semnopithecus johnii, bonnet macaque (Macaca radiate) and the

Hanuman langur (Semnopithecus entellus entellus/priam.) While the Lion-tailed

macaque and Nilgiri langur are endemic to the Western Ghats, the other two

species are widespread throughout southern India.


-20-

The Lion – tailed macaque (LTM):

The Lion-tailed macaque ranges through three southern Indian states :

Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Because of its highly selective feeding habits,

limited range of occupancy (about 2500 km2), delayed sexual maturity, Long

inter-birth intervals, low population turnover and a small remaining wild

population, this species has been classified as endangered (IUCN, 2003).

The population status of the species, as a whole, however, continues to be

elusive over most of its range. Karanth (1992), while outlining the conservation

prospects for the Western Ghats, Emphasized the importance of the lion-tailed

macaque as a flagship species of the rapidly declining rainforests of this

biodiversity hotspot. The findings from recent surveys on the status of lion-tailed

macaques in, Someshwara wild life Sanctuary (SWS) is as follows.

Physical features of the study sites

Protected

Area Lat-Long Range

Area

(km)2) Rainfall

Altitude range

(m ASL)

Someshwara

WS

13027’54”- 13

030’54”N,

74056’09”- 74

059’45”E

Someshwara 88.40 4000 75-870

RESULTS

The total number of lion-tailed macaque individuals and groups

sighted during the survey period. 4 group in Someshwara wildlife

sanctuary.

Though groups were found from a minimum altitude of 124m ASL to

the maximum altitude of 1400 m ASL, 83.3% of the sightings were

between 300m ASL and 900m ASL.

Sightings and estimation of lion-tailed macaque group in SWS.

Range KM

Walked

No. of

Sightings

Total animal

sighted

Estimated

groups

Total animals sighted

in estimated groups

Someshwara 199 11 59 4 32

Comparison of present findings with Karanth(1985) on status of lion-

tailed macaques in Someshwara wild life sanctuary.Values in the

brackets are percentage of the current estimation compared to the

Karanth(1985).

Range Karanth (1985) Current census

Someshwara 3 51 4(133.3) 32(62.7)


-21-

Large contiguous population of the lion-tailed macaque are expected to

occur only in very few regions over the entire Western Ghats and the

conservation status of the species is likely to differ across these sparse

Populations.

It is evident from the body of the literature that there are very few know

viable population left in the nature. The Lion-tailed macaque population in

Someshwara WS is the only largest viable population among the protected

areas.

We suggest the population assessment in these reserve forest ever two

years to compare the existing population size and they also should be

monitored continuously within this protected areas network.

Recommendations:

1. Annual population monitoring of the lion-tailed macaque both at

protected areas and their adjacent reserves forest are necessary to

understand the population status and viability.

2. Wherever the protected area in the Western Ghats include this

species, the lion-tailed macaque can be considered as a ’flagship

species’ to enlist public support for conservation.

3. Precautionary steps should be taken to prevent poaching and special

package should be chalked out for its Protection & conservation.

4. Steps should do be taken to retain the primary forest with continuous

canopy.

4.1.8 – Past expenditure on development works:

Summary of expenditure after the declaring as PA is given is

furnished at ANNEXURE –XII.


22

5.1.1–Location, extent and demography of zone of influence (ZI):

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is surrounded by human settlements

all along the periphery except on the Shimoga district border. Many rice

mills and cashew factories have been established in places like Seethanadi,

Someshwara, Hebri, Mudradi and Chara. Hebri township is developing fast.

Proposal for formation of a new revenue taluk with head quarters at Hebri is

being pursued actively. There is good employment potential here and

therefore many people are migrating from the neighboring villages. As a

result, demand for the fuelwood in Hebri town as well as the near by

hamlets is increasing rapidly.

Villages outside and inside the PA are Hebri, Mudradi, Nadpal, Kuchur,

Belanje of Karkala taluks and Madamakki, Belve, Albady, Shedimane and

Amasebyle of Kundapur taluk and also Nalkur village of Udupi taluk. Inside

the PA many exclosures exist. A list of enclosure is given in ANNEXURE

- XIII Important among them is Hanja (includes Karimane and Yedamala),

which is situated right in the center of core zone. Most of the population

depends on the forests of the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary directly or

indirectly for their biomass requirement, water for cultivation and grazing of

cattle. People in the low income group (below poverty line) especially

Koragas depend on the forests for their livelihood by way of collecting

firewood from the neighboring sanctuary areas and sell the same at Hebri.

5.1.2 – Economic trends in and around the PA :

Agriculture is the major occupation in and around the sanctuary.

They grow paddy, areca and coconut. Some depend on employment

provided by the cashew factories and rice mills. Almost all the villagers rear

cattle of local breed and occasionally cross breeds. They depend on forests

for grazing their cattle. Milk collection points have been established at

Madamakki, Shedimane, Ardi, Jaddinagadde, Someshwara, Kuchur, Hebri

etc. Dairy industry is being encouraged by the local bodies.


-23-

5.1.3 – PA management practices and their implications for people:

Better and effective protection to the PA is boosting the wildlife

population-giving rise to man animal conflicts in the PA. Restrictions on

NTFPs collection from the PA have irked the pleasure of those who depend

upon them for livelihood. The PA management faces the animosity of

such people persistently.

5.1.4 – Development programmes and conservation issues:

Many developmental programmes have been carried out in the PA.

A network of rural roads has been developed. Almost each and every

house has an approach road connected to panchayath roads, which are in

turn connected to arterial roads. Similarly almost all houses in the PA are

provided with telephones and electric power supply. A number of

government offices, schools, college, etc., have been established in and

around the PA.

A mini-hydel project on Seethanadi at Jomblu theertha was

proposed but was rejected by the department at the ground level. If this

was implemented, major part of Thenkahola RF would have been

submerged under water and the dense forest cover would have been lost.

Transmission lines for power and telephones have already lost some

forest cover in PA.

5.1.5 – Summary of prevailing economic situation:

Prices of agricultural produce and industrial employment are on a

downward trend. Unemployment is on the rise locally. People tend to

revert frequently to old time professions to overcome distress and

insufficient income. Biomass based economy affects the conservation of

the PA adversely in a number of ways. So the relationship between local

people and the PA management is bound to be uneasy for quite

sometime. Hence Eco-development committees were formed during the

year 2003 to seek public cooperation in preservation and conservation of

flora and fauna of the PA.


-24-

5.1.6 – General scenario of forest protection:

Large human and cattle population living within the sanctuary covers

the southern half. Sitanadi river passes through the sanctuary. There are

quite a number of settlements on either side of the Seetanadi river and most

of them are now covered with areca and coconut orchards. Therefore people

find it easy to invade the forest for leaf mulch, grazing cattle, gathering

firewood etc. Because of close proximity to Hebri town ship, a large number

of landless people settled near Jatkatmale RF are engaged in professional

head loading. They switch between sale of firewood and dry leaf mulch

depending upon season and market demand. Koraga population living around

heavily utilizes Mathkalgudde RF for livelihood. The people in Albadi, Belanje,

Horakallu and Gummara exclosures use Tenkahola RF extensively for

fuelwood as well as dry leaf. Because of the honey combing nature of the

habitations, it is really difficult to afford lawful protection to this part of the

sanctuary.

However, the northern half has a completely different story. Here the

human population is very thin. There are no serious protection problems and

the forest is in very good stand.

5.1.7 – Poaching:

Poaching of animals is rather

rare and confined mainly to the fringes

of cultivations. The crop protection

arms in possession of the farmers

trigger lot. Intentional poaching

cannot be entirely ruled out as the

sanctuary area is a mosaic of different

land tenures. However the staff are

vigilant 24 hours and due care is taken

to take action against the culprits.

Abstract of licensed gun holders within the sanctuary limits is

furnished in Annexure-XIV. However during the last 7 years no

poaching incident has taken place within the sanctuary. This is shown in

the statement of offence cases in Table 4


-25-

5.1.8 – Illegal removal of NWFPs:

Non-wood forest produce includes ramapatre, manthuhuli,

dalchini leaves, muruganahuli, halmaddi resin etc. Prior to 1995, the

territorial forest division was leasing out NTFPs to LAMP Society and

other forest contractors. They used to collect NWFPs from all over the

forest including the sanctuary area. The sanctuary area is now excluded

from lease but superstitious collection continues. However the tendering

of NWFPS by neighbouring divisions should be banned completely so as

to avoid the contractors stealing from the PA.

5.1.9 – Encroachment:

There are no encroachments inside the sanctuary. But the buffer

zone of 100 meters around reserved forests boundaries have already

been either occupied or cultivated by the adjoining ryots. They also try to

draw water from the sanctuary through pipes and open channels to

irrigate their agricultural crops.This activity is also under control.

5.1.10 –Land grants in Chara :

A peculiar situation prevails in Chara village. A block of 414 acres

in two bits was proposed for notification as a reserved forest in early 70’s

but unfortunately it was not gazetted. Meanwhile the sanctuary

notification was issued including this area also in the year 1974.

Contending that the area doesn’t have the status of a reserved forest, the

revenue authorities went ahead and granted land for 64 families who

have settled down and taken possession of the better part of the block. A

Navodaya school has also been established over 20 ha. of land on the

road side. Until the recent interpretation of the word ‘forest’ by the

Honorable Supreme Court, forest authorities ignored the matter but now

it has become an intractable problem and needs to be resolved early. The

High Court of Karnataka , single bench has given its verdict in the year

2009 favouring the villagers. The case is appealed by the Govt. to a

higher bench and the case is under progress.


-26-

However this is a situation wherein the villagers are against the

departmental activities and need to be solved at the earliest. The

department has suggested remedial measures to exclude the problematic

area and add some vulnerable area in the PA. However a decision has to

be taken by the State Wildlife Board in this regard which is awaited.

5.1.11 – Domestic livestock grazing:

About 15070 cattle survive within the sanctuary as per the report

collected from the local veterinary offices. Grazing is excessive around

villages, foothills and gentle slopes. Dense evergreen forests do not have

grasses and therefore don’t have any grazing problem. Hence stall

feeding and high milching animals will be encouraged. Besides every year

vaccination of the cattle with the cooperation of the veterinary

department is carried out in the villages to the cattle population to avoid

foot and mouth disease occurring and affecting the wild life population.

5.1.12 – Wild fires:

Wild fires are occasional in the

sanctuary. General preventive measures are

taken by engaging firewatchers and carrying

out fire tracing works. Occasionally fires are

reported in Jomblu RF and Chara block as they

contain plantations of Acacia and Casuarina

and are overgrown with weeds and grasses

surrounding the habitations. Dry grasses on the rocky cliffs of the ghats

sometimes catch fire due to negligence from honey collectors .Trainings is

apiculture and awareness to the EDC members is proposed to avoid this

problem. Cooperation is sought from the EDC

members during fires and to check smuggling

activities. A fire crisis management plan

was prepared and submitted to the MOEF

in the year 2010 and a copy of the same

is given in ANNEXURE - XV


-27-

5.1.13 – Insect attacks and pathological problems:

No major problems of insect attacks and pathological problems

have been reported in the natural stands of the sanctuary. Defoliation of

teak and Ailanthus are an annual feature.

5.1.14 – Fragmentation of sanctuary by illegal roads:

Each one of the sprinkled house holds in the sanctuary have developed

full fledged jeepable roads connecting them to the nearby major roads.

Many households are connected by more than one road. Panchayaths

have been enthusiastically constructing permanent bridges at very huge

costs but only with prior approval from the concerned authorities. At a

net result, the sanctuary is splintered very badly. Men and vehicles move

on these roads almost through out the day and very few areas are free

from human interference.

5.1.15 – Magnitude of forest offences:

Violations of forest law are petty in nature and are indulged in as a

matter of course. Since they are livelihood issues, they are tackled

according to the existing laws. List of offence cases booked in the last

five years is as under :-

Table – 5 : Offence cases in Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary :

Sl. No.

Year Illicit felling

cases

Illegal NTFP

Cases

Poaching cases

Other cases

Total

1 2003-04 1 - - - 1

2 2004-05 5 4 - 1 10

3 2005-06 9 - - 9 18

4 2006-07 9 3 - 6 18

5 2007-08 13 3 - 1 17

6 2008-09 9 4 - 1 14

7 2009-10 14 3 - - 17

Total 60 17 - 18 95


GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION OF OFFECE CASES IN SOMESHWARA

WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

2003-04,

1No2004-05,

10 Nos

2005-06,

18 Nos

2006-07,

18 Nos2007-08,

17 Nos

2008-09,

14 Nos

2009-10,

17 Nos

2003-04

2004-05

2005-06

2006-07

2007-08

2008-09

2009-10

-28-

Other cases includes APC camp damage, Death of wild animals due to

accidents, forest fires, ramp bridge damage case, illegal entry into

Sanctuary.

NAXAL DAMAGES DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS WITHIN THE PA

Naxal activities started within this Protected area during the

year 2004. Thereafter the damages caused within the protected area is

listed as below.

Damages caused within the protected area

Date Naxalite incidents occurred

06-01-2005

Sri. Nagappa Pujari, Forest Guard, abducted in Hosgadde, in Shankarnarayan Range of Kundapur Division, kept in custody for 4 hours and set free without any harm. They shouted slogans like ‘Naxalite zindabad’ and warned that FD should not trouble local people.

28-03-2005

An armed gang of 8 members came to Madamakki, Shedimane, Hanja (an enclosure in Ballimane R.F.) and in Maya Bazar locality on 28-03-2005 and distributed handout.

30-03-2005 Same members reached Megadde, Koodlu, Thinglay in Someshwara R.F.

30-03-2005 and

31-03-2005

Some miscreants have trespassed into the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and destroyed one minor bridge on Dulli – Hanja patrolling road. They have left some printed hand bills and hand written posters under the names viz. C.P.I. (Maoist) A.R.C.S., K.R.C.S., M.V. etc. In the hand bills, it is stated among other issues that they have pledged to fulfill the vision of camred Saketh Rajan. There forest cases have been booked in the regard in Someshwara Wildlife Range for the offences under sections 27, 29 and 31 read with sections 51 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.


-29-

18-05-2005

Some miscreants have trespassed into the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and destroyed one minor bridge on Dulli – Hanja patrolling road. They have left two printed hand bills under the name CPI (Maoist). In the hand bill, it is stated among other issues that they have pledged to fulfill the vision of camred Saketh Rajan. They have also given call to oppose implementation of VAT and reject VAT (Value Added Tax) A forest case has been booked in this regard in Someshwara Wildlife Range for the offences under sections 27, 29 and 31 read with section 51 of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

27-02-2006

A group of miscreants destroyed the anti poaching camp at Hanja of

Someshwara Range and threw some handbills inside the shed and also destroyed the 3 cairns of reserve forest.

11-3-2006

A group of Naxalities detained the staff and labours who are engaged in plantation works in Hanja area in Someswara Range . They threatened them and told to stop the plantation works.

15-05-2008

Suspected naxalites killed Sri. Bhoja Shetty and Suresh Shetty near Seethanadi in Nadpal village while they are returning to home after election campaign.

3-11-2008

On3-11-2008 at around 00.30 hrs, naxalites visited the house of Sri. Narayana Naika, P.C.P watcher in Anti- poaching camp at Hanja and warned him that he has to give up the job in forest department. When he resisted he was manhandled and his mobile and landline phone are destroyed. Further they disappeared into the forest.

20-06-2005

Some miscreants obstructed to the planting work taken up by the

Someshwara Wildlife Range at Albady section. The gang were four

men and one woman. They warned the labours not to do the work and

also distributed the 5 types of hand bills to forester and warned them

to stop the plantation works immediately

The anti naxal force of the State Government is deployed in some

areas but the departmental staff and anti poaching infrastructures need to

be developed to overcome the naxal activities. For this a special package

is needed for the management of the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and

special allowances to the forest protection staffs need to be given.

5.1.16 – Staff for forest protection :

In order to protect the sanctuary from encroachments, illicit

fellings, poaching, fire and smuggling, existing range staff are engaged in

regular patrolling for forest areas. The sanctioned staff strength consists

of two foresters and six forest guards. Generally 10% of the frontline

posts remain vacant. List of required executive staff is furnished in

ANNEXURE – XVI and XVI (a)


-30-

DETAILS OF EACH TYPE OF PRESSURE THAT THE SANCTUARY IS

UNDER ARE DESCRIBED IN THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPHS.

6.1.1- Poaching:

With the implementation of the Wildlife (protection) Act, 1972,

hunting got totally prohibited in the state since 1975. But farmers in and

around the sanctuary posses 350 licensed weapons for crop protection

as shown in ANNEXURE- XIV

Poaching is very rare and it is

confined to small fauna. This is

controlled by patrolling round the clock

by the staff and creating general

awareness about the conservation

policies among the people through EDCs

6.1.2 Illegal felling of trees :

Illegal removal of firewood and small timber is an age old practice

of villagers in and around the sanctuary. Usually they collect dead and

fallen materials. Sometimes green trees are also cut. But this is very rare.

Consequently degradation is seen along the fringes up to depth of 2-3

kms. However, it is well controlled by the Range staff.

6.1.3- Illegal removal of NTFP :

Apart from agriculture, people, both tribal as well as non-tribal,

derive seasonal income from collection and selling of NTFP’s In fact this

has been a tradition of tribals. Annual income ranges between Rs. 5000/-

to Rs. 10,000/- per family mainly from the dalchini leaves, honey, rind of

garcinia, soap nut etc. there is intense competition among the inhabitants

to collect forest produce as a result of which some trees are harvested

completely even before crop is mature. Driving force of this activity is

poverty and unemployment. Species affected are represented very poorly

in the younger age classes.

Panther killed by Poachers


-31-

Prior to formation of the Kudremukh Wildlife Division, right of MFP

collection used to be sold in auction or was allotted to the local LAMP

society. It was revenue oriented. Once the sanctuary came under the

control of wildlife wing, legal NTFP removal is totally stopped.

In spite of restrictions, illegal removal of halmaddi, dalchinni leaves

etc., is often and offence cases are booked, because it is auctioned in the

neighbouring territorial divisions. However the EDC’s are guided to keep a

check on such illegal activities.

6.1.4 Illegal collection of leaf litter;

The practice of collecting leaf litter in large quantities in admittedly

undesirable. However , it is an age old practice and even today wide

spread. Undergrowth is hacked and well-grown trees are lopped for leaf

litter. This practice not merely destroys the existing regeneration and

young saplings but it alters the soil surface conditions. People from

surrounding areas collect leaf litter and often transport it by vehicles.

Large work forces of women are exclusively employed on collection and

sale of dry leaf litter in the summer season. Each farmer requires on an

average 300 ballies for use around his paddy cultivation during monsoon.

They last hardly one season. Therefore every year, ballies have to be cut

and farmlands have to be fenced against cattle and wild animals.

However, the local villagers are target and convinced by forest staff

against the illegal practices.

6.1.5 Grazing;

Cattle are found grazing all over the sanctuary except on the steep

slopes. There is very little of grass in the thickly wooded areas. People are

compelled to send their cattle in to the sanctuary for grazing purpose.

Cattle are found using whatever little grasses are available during the

monsoon. But depend on the tender shoots, flowers, ponds, etc,. in the

post monsoon months. However it is under control by the forest staff in

co operation with the EDCs.


-32-

6.1.6 ;Man and Animal conflict ;

This is a great problem in the coming years and the animals like

Bison, Deer, Peacock enter the paddy fields and damage the crops of the

farmers. In some cases they kill the human beings or in turn the wild

animals are killed by villagers due to fear. Suitable compensation is paid

to the villagers for crop damage or human kill. But the amount is meager

compared to the loss caused.

Table 6: Compensation paid for last 5 years for crop damage within the

Sanctuary limits.

S.No. Year Amount

1 2005-06 45000.00

2 2006-07 39900.00

3 2007-08 41083.00

4 2008-09 35300.00

5 2009-10 43200.00

Falls near Haddinabare


-33-

7.1.1 – General :

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is an attractive tract of evergreen

and semi-evergreen forests with rich and varied flora and fauna. A portion

of the sanctuary has been able to retain its pristine nature and it must be

our endeavor to spread it to the entire sanctuary.

7.1.2 – Objectives of management:

(a) To conserve the floral and faunal diversity of SWL

Sanctuary by creating conditions under which wildlife

population may reach its optimum level.

(b) To excel in the natural and cultural heritage

management of sanctuary by acknowledging and

utilizing traditional and scientific expertise

( c) To create awareness among the people about the need

to protect the nature in general and Someshwara

Wildlife Sanctuary in particular.

(d) By implementing the eco-development activities seek

cooperation of the villagers to reduce the biotic

pressure on the sanctuary and minimise man-animal

conflicts.

(e) To maintain and develop, eco-tourism within the

permissible limits and inculcate the interest in

preservation and conservation of nature among the

public.

(f) To share and maintain the tourist spots with the EDCs

cooperation.


-34-

7.1.3 – Conservation values in Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary;

a) It is a small but representative sample of western ghat

eco-system west of Agumbe – the “Chirrapunji of South

India”.

b) It is the preferred habitat to the endangered lion tailed

macaque, Great Indian Hornbill, King cobra and such rare

animals.

c) It is the catchment for Seethanadi River.

d) It is a rich biodiversity area of considerable scientific,

educational and recreational value.

7.1.4 – Problems in achieving objectives:

a) Unscientific formation of the PA,

b) Presence of settlements in the PA,

c) Presence of highways and arterial roads,

d) High level of human interference in the sanctuary,

e) Heavy livestock grazing especially on the south,

f) Inadequate staffing and funding,

g) Lack of qualified guides.

h) Illegal removal of NTFP

7.1.5 – Plan period :

This plan is prepared for a period of five years commencing from

January 2011 to December 2015. Revision should be taken and

completed by 2014. If new areas are added so as to substantially alter

the shape and size of the sanctuary, revision should be taken up

immediately thereafter.


-35-

8.1.1 – General :

Strategies which have long term effect on the improvement of the

sanctuary will be taken up in addition to a set of programmes that are

required for the usual upkeep and maintenance of the sanctuary. The

strategies proposed to be followed are as under :

a) Reorganizing the sanctuary areas to cover the maximum

biodiversity and to protect its ecological integrity,

b) Habitat protection and management for conducive

environment for animals to thrive and breed,

c) Eco tourism activities for the purpose of education,

publicity and recreation,

d) Addressing the problems of inhabitants in the fringes

through a properly designed eco-development programme

and

e) Reducing the anthropogenic pressure from within by

offering attractive rehabilitation package especially for

the people residing in the core zone.

f) Conserving Biodiversity for the People of Today and

Tomorrow

Malbar Giant squirrel


-36-

8.1.2 – Strategy – 1. Reorganization of the sanctuary areas :

The present Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary covers only the

western facet of the famous Agumbe ghat. Parts of the sanctuary are

disconnected. It is also peppered by quite a number of habitations. The

sanctuary will be ecologically incomplete without adding following

Reserved Forests

Sl.

No

Name of The

Reserved Forest

Extent

(Hectares) Range Division

1 Someshwara Reserved

Forest

10787.49 Ha Hebri territorial

range

Kundapur

2 Agumbe State Forest 5241.83 Ha Agumbe Range Shimoga

3 Balehalli State Forest 1908.91 Ha Agumbe Range Shimoga

4 New Someshwara RF

extension

76.40 Ha Someshwara

Wild Life Range

Karkala

Someshwara Reserved Forest is the catchment of Seethanadi river.

It is a huge reserved forest of 10787.49 Ha containing very few

habitations but a very high density of wildlife. Balehalli and Agumbe

State Forests represent high elevation evergreen forests and are

renowned for very high bio-diversity. In fact these two state forests have

the reputation of being among the best evergreen forests within the state

and are the study sites for many probationers and scientists. Logging

was not very excessive and therefore the original composition of the

forest remains largely intact. Agumbe state forest is spread over 5241.83

ha. and is totally free from any habitations. Presently it is tapped heavily

by the NTFP contractors and several endangered species are eliminated

from the younger classes. Therefore it is absolutely necessary to

reorganize the areas of the sanctuary by including only 5 state forests,

viz., the Someshwara Reserve Forest, New Someshwara Reserve Forest,

Ballimane Reserve Forest, Agumbe Reserve Forest and Balehalli State

Forest. A map of the existing and proposed areas is furnished in Plate –6.


-37-

8.1.3 – Strategy – 2. Habitat management and protection:

The sanctuary has been divided into zones for the purpose

of management as indicated in the map in Plate – 7.

a) Core zone: This covers compartments 1 to 5. This zone is meant for

total protection and conservation of wildlife and its habitat.

b) Habitat improvement zone: This covers compartments 6 to 10. This

zone is open to basic forestry operations in so far as it concerns

habitat improvement without disturbing the wildlife. A Elephant

proof trench or stone wall to prevent the wild animals crossing

over to farmlands is necessary over a distance of 12 kms from

Mandi to Madamakki, then to Kudrubeedu up to Menasehadi.

Several illegal jeepable roads can be easily closed down

permanently by providing diversion paths away from the sanctuary.

This is easily one of the most important components required for

consolidating the habitat.

8.1.4 – Strategy - 3. Eco tourism, education and publicity :

a) Tourism zone :

This zone is around Seethanadi

nature camp and covers

Jatkatmale RF, Old

Someshwara RF, Jomblukadu

RF and Mavinakodlu RF. It is

an overlapping zone. It is

meant for tourist activities Seethanadi Forest Guest House

like wildlife viewing, nature camps,trekking,river rafting, picnic

spots, recreation etc. The Seethanadi Nature Camp is situated on

the bank of Seethanadi river and 4Kms away from the Hebri

village. The Nature Camp consists of a dormitory having 12 beds

and a cottage having 2 beds at Seethanadi along with 2 pergolas.

Ten numbers of Tents are constructed which would be pleasure

staying for tourists


-38-

Tourists will be charged with an entry fee of Rs.40 for adults and Rs.20

for children as per the orders of the Chief Wildlife Warden. From July

to September a river rafting in Seethanadi river will be enjoyable for

tourists. This nature camp is located on the Udupi-Agumbe state

highway. It is a special attraction for the student community and local

clubs like Rotary, Lions, Jaycees, etc. to study nature and create

awareness about wildlife and offers good opportunities to tourists,

especially bird watchers, nature lovers and trekkers. It is proposed

that the maintenance of the Nature Camp will be done through the

EDC’s and revenue generated to be revolved.

b) Eco-sensitive zone : Area within 5 kms radius of the sanctuary outside

the PA is treated as eco-sensitive zone. The villages included in this

zone are Amasebyle, Shedimane, Madamakki, Belvi, Albadi of

Kundapur taluk and Mudradi, Hebri, Nadpal, Kuchur and Belanje of

Karkala taluk. A large population of human beings and livestock and

the traditional agricultural practices in this zone directly affect the PA.

Demographic information of this zone is furnished at ANNEXURE –

XVII and in Plate – 8.

c) Ecosensitive zone map


-39-

8.1.5 – Strategy – 4. Eco-development of fringe villages :

In the long run it is imperative to provide certain facilities to the

fringe villagers so as to bring a harmony between them and the sanctuary.

The eco-development programme addresses this issue. It is to be carried

out with the following objectives in mind :

8.1.6 – Objectives :

a) To reduce negative impact of PA on the surrounding villages.

b) To seek co-operation of the local villagers in conserving the wildlife

and solve man-animal conflicts within the Sanctuary.

c) Dairy is a flourishing business within and around the sanctuary.

Quite a number of farmers have already gone for better breeds of

cattle. The remaining people should be encouraged to exchange

malnad giddas to better breeds by providing a matching grant to the

income derived from the sale of malnad giddas.

d) To pay reasonable and immediate compensation to the villagers whose

crop or cattle are damaged/killed by wild animals and seek their

goodwill.

8.1.7 – Strategy – 5. Relocation and rehabilitation package for

sanctuary inhabitants :

The revenue and the forest departments jointly carried out a

detailed status survey of the villages inside the Someshwara

Wildlife Sanctuary in the year 2002. Demographic details of

such villages are furnished at ANNEXURE– XVII. The communities

present in the sanctuary are mostly forward ones. Scheduled tribes like

Marathi Naik and Koragas are also found in some places.

There are 74 families in the core zone of the PA at Hanja,

Yedamale and Karimane in the Madamakki village limits. They are

together called as Hanja enclosure. Legally it is not as part of the

sanctuary. But effectively, due to its location, it is well inside the PA.


-40-

All the families practice agriculture and animal husbandry. 15 Koraga

families have been allotted sites and a colony is developed by the taluk

panchayath. Each of them holds only 0.05 acre land at Hanja.

There is no life for these agriculturists without the leaf mulch, cattle,

NTFPs, fuel wood, small timber and the freedom to move around for which

they have to use the sanctuary. Normal rural development works like laying

of roads, electrification, telecom lines etc., have already been put on hold. A

sincere attempt must be made towards relocating the Hanja enclosure during

this plan period on voluntary basis.

4 families at Arisinamane, 1 family from Kirlumane, 23 families from

Kabbinale, 13 families from Hanja and 11 families from Yadamale require

immediate relocation as these are located in the core area of the sanctuary.

Indian guar (Bison ) grazing in the field


Holigarna arnottiana

Sphaeranthus indicus

Terminalia paniculata

Pseudathriaviscida

Flacourtia montana

Diploclisia glaucescens

Cayratia mollissima

-41-

8.1.8 – Strategy – 6.Protection of Medicinal Plants:

Lot of important medicinal plants are found within the sanctuary and

their protection and preservation is very important. Study was carried out

with the help of Botony Professor Sri. Beguru D. Prakash of Alvas College,

Moodabidri and list is prepared for important and local medicines species

found within the sanctuary. The detailed list of these plants along with the

common name and their uses for different diseases is listed and put in

ANNEXURE – XVIII.

The important medicinal plants are

8.1.9 – Strategy – 7. Protection of important ferns :

A study was done with the help of botanist Dr. K.G.Bhat, Rtd.

Professor, Poornaprajna College, Udupi and the

important Ferns found within the Sanctuary were

collected and identified. The herbariums of the Ferns are

kept in the office and the list of the identified Ferns is

enclosed in ANNEXURE-XIX

The important Ferns are

Tectaria coadunata

Adiantum lunulatum.Burm.

Drynaria quercifolia

Blechnum orientale

Selaginella delicatula


Holigarna arnottiana

Sphaeranthus

indicus

ferns

Cairns

-42-

9.1.1 – Effective protection to the sanctuary :

It is of paramount importance to provide the best protection possible

for the improvement of the sanctuary. The following steps should be taken in

this regard.

9.1.2–Maintenance of boundaries :

The sanctuary has a outer perimeter of 130

kms. The enclosure boundaries stretch over 50

kms. As of now boundaries of the PA are well

defined. However there needs to be resurveyed

once in five years by the survey of India so that the

public be made aware of it. They are well

demarcated on the ground. In some places,

permanent features like river, its tributaries, nalas

and roads form the natural boundary. In some

areas, it runs through rock cliffs and dense forests, most of which are not

easily accessible. The sanctuary boundary should be permanently

demarcated using engraved stone / RCC slabs. D’lines and enclosure

boundaries should be cleared whenever habitat development works are taken

up in the compartment. Damaged cairns should be reconstructed.

A small area of 76.40 ha. now constituted as the New Someshwara RF

extension block lies deep inside the PA but it is not a part of it. All sides by

the PA surround it. It has to be incorporated in to the PA.

9.1.3- Maintenance of salt licks;-

About 75 salt licks are provided in the sanctuary mostly in the vicinity

of water holes, riverbeds and other watercourses in the tourism zone. It is

observed that wild animals visit most of the salt licks during the summer.

Natural salt licks are scarce in the sanctuary. Hence, maintenance of existing

salt licks is necessary. More should be added if felt necessary.


Gully checks in Ballimane RF

Patrolling path

-43-

9.1.4- Soil and moisture conservation works;

Due to steep slopes and heavy rains, soil

erosion rates are relatively high. This in turn

adversely affects water regime and the natural

regeneration. In order to conserve soil and

water, gully checks, water conservation

trenches, contour bunding have to be

constructed in higher reaches. A few check dams

and water tanks are also necessary to improve the water

availability to the wild animals. Existing water tanks need to be desilted once

in two years.

9.1.5 – Prevention of encroachments :

Land records are not fully mutated. Only 89% of the records are

mutated and the rest have been submitted to the Revenue department for

further mutation and being persuaded for its completion. The concerned

District Deputy Commissioners have been requested to instruct the officials

for its speed completion of works. This work is taken on priority. The existing

land holdings in the enclosures are to be surveyed and demarcated to avoid

future encroachments. The issues pertaining to Chara and Hanja enclosure

should be resolved as soon as possible amicably.

9.1.6 – Administration and patrolling :

a) One antipoaching camp is already working at Hanja. One more

antipoaching camp is to be established in Someshwara Reserve forests for

better and effective protection of wild animals.

b) All the forest guards and foresters are to be provided with latest guns

and trained accordingly. They should form into teams of one forester or

forest guard plus two antipoaching camp watchers to perform their field

rounds. Beats must be perambulated regularly without fail. Records

must be maintained for their observations on wildlife or poaching

activities occurred if any.

c) The existing patrolling tracks should be maintained

annually to keep them fit for round the year use.

d) The staff should be given incentives on par with the

ANF police force for working in the naxal affected

areas and proper insurance cover should be provided to

them in case of any untoward incidents.


-44-

9.1.7 – Fire Management Plan:

Fire is one of the problems which should be tackled in time with local

cooperation. Nevertheless, fire tracing should be done along the state

highways and prominent signboards should be displayed before the start of

the season. Small patches of grasslands existing along the ridgeline should

have controlled burning in December so as to generate green grass for the

herbivores and avoid any fire incidents.

Handbills should be printed and distributed to the surrounding villagers

during December/January depicting hazards/damage caused by forest fires.

Some of the fire fighting strategies suggested are as follows: (detailed plan

is enclosed in the annexure XV)

1 In the month of November discussing with the EDC members

about the fire problem and seeking their co operation to

fight in case of fire.

2. Appointing sufficient fire watchers from among the EDC

members of the village in the month of December to May

of the year.

3. Printing pamphlets and distributing the villagers and

roadside pubic to create awareness about the ill effect of

fire.

4. Purchase of fire fighting kits and giving it to fire watchers

to fight fire during emergency.

9.1.8 – Habitat Management :

The following activities are proposed for the habitat improvement:

a) Enrichment of degraded forest areas in Mavinakodlu RF by seed

dibbling/seedling planting of fruit and fodder species. In addition,

wherever monoculture exotic plantations exit, line digging and ridge

sowing of seeds or wildlings or stumps may be taken up to improve

their habitability.


-45-

b) Construction of check dams, gully checks etc and repairing the

existing ones as a measure of soil and water conservation.

c) Desilting and deepening of the existing tanks/ponds and

strengthening of the bunds and spillways.

d) Creating new water holes/ponds within the sanctuary limits.

e) Creation of new salt licks and maintenance of the existing ones and

f) Creating meadows and maintaining them wherever possible.

g) Creating Cattle proof trench and stone wall around the sanctuary

to avoid cattle grazing and spread of disease to wild animals

h) Soil conservation works like contour bunding, staggered trenches

etc are to be added.

Programme of works has been cast to meet the above requirement

9.1.9 - Providing basic infrastructure to staff and maintenance;

The quarters and other building should be maintained in good

condition. Wherever there is a shortage, new quarters should be built.

The watchtowers and metallic entry barriers should also be got painted

every year. The publicity boards should be renewed periodically with

attractive slogans and paintings. This will educate the public and pilgrims

visiting the Kollur temple and help in the protection of wildlife and forest.

Solar lights may be provided to the frontline staff quarters wherever

electricity is not available. Group medical insurance to be made to the

frontline staff and their families to avail the better medical facilities incase

of sickness to self and to their families. Provision for traveling allowance to

be made to the staff as they do not get sufficient TA for their works.

Special allowance for naxal affected areas to be provided on par with the

anti naxal force of the State Police Department which they are deprived at

present.


-46-

9.1.10 Regulation of traffic:

Because of traffic round the clock, the State highway passes

through the Sanctuary preventing the free movement of wild animals.

There are possibilities of speeding vehicles running over the wild animals on

the high way passing through the sanctuary. Hence it is necessary to

regulate the traffic between 9.00PM and 6.00 AM. Speed breakers and

signages may be put up within the sanctuary to regulate the traffic on the

highway. The tourists should be educated about ill effects of traffic and

sound pollution and seek their cooperation.

9.1.11 - Fire arms and Ammunition;

It is necessary to provide arms and ammunitions to executive staff.

Already the Range Forest Officer and Foresters are equipped with weapons.

Training in maintenance and handling of weapons is necessary to all the

staff.

Table : 7: Weapons details;

Sl No Particulars Number

1 DBBL 7406645

2 DBBL A B 8403038

3 Rifle A B 891821

4 Slide Action Gun R 721558


-47-

10.1.1 – Introduction :

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary has a number of tourist attractions. It is

necessary to provide basic facilities on a modest scale to eco-tourists. By

definition eco-tourism is a responsible travel to natural areas that helps

conserve the environment and sustain the well being of local people. It has five

basic elements, namely,

Responsibility, concern and commitment to conservation

Community participation and benefit sharing

Respect for local culture, traditions and laws of the land

Visitor satisfaction and

Generation of local employment.

10.1.2 – Objectives :

a) To create awareness among the general public about the need to

protect and conserve the nature and hence the Someshwara Wildlife

Sanctuary.

b) To provide recreation and education to the surrounding school

childrens

c) To build alternative resources for the PA maintenance.

10.1.3 – Impediments :

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary is not on any tourist circuit. Facilities are

few and far between. There are no organized and conducted tours nor there is

a properly equipped interpretation center. Animal sighting is also rather poor.

10.1.4 – Identification of the zone :

The tourism zone covering an area of 39.00 sq. kms. has been

identified for the purpose of eco-tourism activities like nature camp, wildlife

viewing, watch tower. nature trails, trekking, picnic spots etc.


-48-

10.1.5 – Infrastructure development :

Development of existing interpretation center has been

proposed at Seethanadi nature camp with facilities like television for

screening wildlife films, library, souvenirs and publicity materials for the

tourist and school children. Pounding the water in Sitanadi using sand

filled bags may create more visitor facilities. This will render swimming,

boating and watching of a variety of fresh water fish easily. A rare

variety of Masheer fish is available in this river and needs to be

conserved from extinction. It will also enhance the scenic beauty of the

nature camp. Innovative concept like floating bamboo bridges to cross

Seetha river, slides, camouflaged watch towers near pools, etc., may

also be provided to the tourists.

A new trekking path should be laid in the Old Someshwara

reserved forest opposite the nature camp over a distance of 7 – 8 kms

to enable the visitors to spend time in nature. The trekking path

should interconnect nature camp to Bandimata and Madamakki game

track and bring them back to the nature camp. Visitors may be allowed

to use the Bandimata – Madamakki – Kuchur game track on vehicles.

Limited facilities may be created near Jomblu theertha water falls to

attract more visitors. Local guides may be identified and trained for the

purpose of escorting tourists in the sanctuary. School children, college

students, teachers, adventure lovers, members of youth hostels etc.

should be regularly invited to visit the sanctuary.

10.1.6 – Eco-tourism guidelines :

The tourists should be given a thorough briefing of dos and

don’ts before they embark on the visit. They are also to

be displayed on signboards at strategic points of the

nature camp and en-route the game tracks and trekking

paths. A guidebook should also be produced and sold to

the visitors.


-49-

Activities permitted are trekking, bird watching,

photography,nature trail walk, swimming in the notified

places, and wildlife viewing without disturbing them.

Group activities should be encouraged.

Guides should be selected, trained and made available to

the visitors on cost.

The tourists should be given a thorough briefing of dos

and don’ts. The do's and don't are listed in ANNEXURE - XX. A guidebook should also be produced and sold to

the visitors.

Packaged nature camps are to be conducted to the

nearby schoolchildren for two days wherein nature

education and trekking programme should be included

inviting the resources persons to guide them.

Arrangement shall be made to issue tickets at the entrance of the nature

camps and a few important visitors spots. Hence a reception centre already

exists to serve the purpose Reservation of accommodation should be

computerized at the division office. Email access should be created for the

visitors. A website should also be launched and managed. Free film shows and

slide talks should be arranged to the visitors at the interpretation centre.

Special camps on trekking, bird watching, Identification of botanical trees

shrubs & medicinal plants may be arranged seasonally. These trials have to be

maintained regularly.

Table – 8- Revenue realized from Eco tourism during the last five years.

S.No. Year Revenue realized (in Rs.)

1 2005-06 175135.00

2 2006-07 296675.00

3 2007-08 306310.00

4 2008-09 305400.00

5 2009-10 179270.00


-50-

10.1.7 – MONITORING AND EVALUATION ;

Impact of the tourism should be monitored closely by observing the

sighting chances of wild animals, visible impacts of litter, wear out of the

trekking paths, degradation of the vegetation, frequent encounter of each other

by tourists etc,. to determine the carrying capacity and accordingly the tourist

number should be controlled. A feedback should be obtained from every visitor

and follow up action should be taken consistent with the management

objectives. The tourists are levied an entry fees as prescribed by the

government. Tourists shall be monitored by the respective section foresters in

charge of the area with the help of beat guards and beat watchers. They will be

taught against the illegal activities within the sanctuary and the penalties they

are bound to undergo if any.


-51-

11.1.1 – Introduction;

There cannot be any development and protection of the wildlife sanctuary without

the active cooperation and support of the local population. Many people do not have

basic facilities like safe portable water, health services, education, electricity, etc. As

most of theses villagers are agrarians the dependence on forests is multifold. They

depend on the forests for their daily need of fuel, small timber, fodder and green

manure. It is these people within and around the sanctuary who either put fire or

helps in extinguishing the fire. The nearest and maximum encountered government

machinery is a forest official.

In order to mitigate the pressure on forests directly and to take the people along

four EDCs are formed within the sanctuary and the following socio eco developmental

works are proposed.

Table : 9 - LIST OF E.D.C PLANTATIONS IN THE SANCTUARY

S No. Year of plantation Name of the EDC Plantation details Locality of plantation Area inHa

1 2005-06 Hanja ANR Hanja 10

Artificial regeneration Hanja 20

Cane Hanja 5

Bamboo Hanja 15

Mixed Hanja 20

Silvipasture Hanja 5

Total 75

2007-08 Hanja Mixed Nadubettu 25

Cane Nadubettu 10

Total 35

2 2005-06 Bepde Silvipasture Bepde 5

Artifitial regeneration Bepde 15

ANR Bepde 10

Cane Bepde 10

Mixed Bepde 10

Total 50

3 2003-04 Madamakki Artificial regeneration Shirangur 20

Mixed Shirangur 10

Mixed Shirangur 25

Silvipasture Shirangur 10

Total 65

4 2004-05 Ballimane Bamboo Bhutamakki 10

Silvipasture Bhutamakki 5

Cane Bhutamakki 20

ANR Bhutamakki 15

Mixed Bhutamakki 15

Total 65

-52-

In order to seek their co operation the following socio eco

development works are proposed.

Distribution of smokeless chullahs, Eurofit stoves which reduce the

consumption of firewood by almost 80% and only small twigs are used.

One time subsidy to purchase LPG stove

Use of solar stoves for cooking.

Training camps on vermiculture, mushroom cultivation, sericulture, to

the EDC members is necessary.

Training in bee keeping and distribution of beehive boxes.

Distribution of grafts of fruit trees to aid and enhance their earning.

Nature camp and study tours for the EDC members for exposure about

forests and Wild life and how they can contribute to the department

in its conservation activities.

Encouragement to go for better breeds and stall-feeding.

Veterinary facilities in the form of artificial insemination and

vaccination to the cattle.

Providing employment opportunities to the local people by improving eco

tourisum

Encouraging to sell the local products through EDCs to sustain the

income activities of the surrounding villagers.

11.1.2-Reducing man-animal conflict: The following works are proposed.

a) Immunization to cattle against communicable diseases is to be

undertaken with the help of Animal husbandry department annually.

b) Speedy settlement of compensation claims for crop damages and

loss/damage to cattle and human life. For this purpose, sufficient funds

should be made available with the DCF. Scaring teams and crackers

may be provided to the farmers to scare away crop raiding wild animals,

so that the damage to crops is minimized. Solar fencing and stone walls

to be constructed.


-53-

c) Workshops for local community leaders like members of Gram

Panchayath, Taluk Panchayath and Zilla Panchayath and other elected

representatives to be conducted to update the latest rules and regulation

of Forest Department.

In order to mitigate the direct dependence of the people on the forests for

economic activities the following socio eco developmental works are proposed.

Training camps on vermin culture, beekeeping, mushroom

cultivation, sericulture, need to be encouraged for self employment..

Nature camp for the local visitors for exposure about forests and

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary. Exposure of EDC members to other

successful Wildlife Sanctuary and National Parks within the state and

outside the state so that on seeing other success stories the department

may gain more co-operations from them.

Take note of their experience and suggestions.

Encourage self employment in weaving.

11.1.3-Publicity and propaganda :

Educating the younger generation and

public is very important for long term

sustainability of natural resources. A

reciprocal programme of inviting

permitting people to visit, see and learn

about nature inside the sanctuary and the

sanctuary authorities going outside the

boundaries and promoting conservation

education through a sustain campaign of

films, discussions, debates, competitions

etc., should be vigoursly pursued. People are thrilled and excited to see the nature in its

own place and at its best. Therefore, through the process of eco-tourism people should be

permitted to visit the sanctuary and feel the nature. Publicity regarding sanctuary should

be given among religious tourists visiting Someshwara temple, school and college

students around the sanctuary. Necessary posters, handbills, pamphlets, brochures etc

should be published in large number and distributed.

Distribution of Solar Lights & Tiles to

the beneficiaries under EPA activities


-54-

Regular programme should be organized at the Seethanadi Nature Camp with the

help of resourceful personnel for the visitors. A properly equipped interpretation center

should be added to the nature camp.

It is necessary to get the co-operation of the villagers living in and around the

sanctuary and the general public. Organizing camps and lectures, exhibition of films and

wildlife photographs, establishing interpretation centers to spread the conservation

message among the people are also necessary.

Publicity is the basic ingredient for building any opinion or brand image.

The need to develop an opinion for the sanctuary is very essential for it's

survival in long term. It will also aid in removal of any misgivings about the

sanctuary. The following activities are listed.

Nature education camps for students and teachers of schools and

colleges.

Workshops for elected representatives like members of gram

panchayat, taluk panchayat and Zilla panchayat and other local

NGOs.

Publishing of posters, handbills, pamphlets, brochures etc.

Publishing articles on tourist spots and endangered species of the

sanctuary and media coverage about

its importance

Permitting research activities to the

individuals and institutions on new

species of flora and fauna or habitat

improvement


Adventure activities for students in

nature camps

-55-

12.1.1 – Research :

Well organized scientific research would help the PA management

to improve baseline data, improve decision-making, enhance ecological

and cultural integrity of PA, reduce overall management costs and

enhance benefits, improve sustainability and increase public awareness

and their participation.

To this effect, research in the following fields has been suggested in the PA.

a) Studies on characteristic plant communities, diversity,

composition, regeneration status and utilization.

b) Baseline studies on distribution, abundance status and

habitat utilization of large mammals, small and medium

mammals, avifauna, snakes and other macro and

microorganisms.

c) Study on big cats like leopards – their ecology with special

reference to prey-predator relationships.

d) Disease and animal health monitoring in and around PA.

e) Study on behavior, life style and population of the

endangered species present in the PA like Great Indian,

Malabar squirrel

f) Study on catchments capability, water distribution and

aquatic diversity for effective water management.

g) Study on King Cobra and Lion Tailed Macaque about its

behaviour and population.

h) Carrying capacity of the sanctuary.

i) Studies on man and animal conflicts.

-56-


12.1.2 – Monitoring :

The PA has a fairly large human and cattle population who use the

sanctuary regularly. Consequently there is pressure on the density of wild

animals. Change in the population levels is hardly discernible and unless they

are monitored at regular intervals, the effect of protection and management

cannot be determined. Therefore population estimates should be undertaken

inside the sanctuary biannually for major animals, rare birds and reptiles and

data should be documented.

12.1.3. Staff Training :

Regular training of different cadres of staff in basic wildlife management

and other related disciplines is essential for scientific management of the PA as

officers and permanent staff are regularly transferred out.

Basic skill development for field staff is very important. Specialized

training in wildlife crimes , legal knowledge and medicinal plants, of the staff is

essential to tone up their skills from time to time.

It is proposed to conduct regular training programmes and workshops in

the field as well as to depute the staff for short-term courses in reputed

institutions of the state and the country.

They should also be given good amenities including well-maintained

accommodation and appropriate allowances to mitigate the difficulties as the

staff are less interested in working in the wildlife areas compared to their

territorial counterparts.

Some of the trainings proposed are:-

1) Identification of important medicinal plants and its uses.

2) Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and latest amendments to the frontline staff.

3) Peoples participation in Ecotourism and protection of wildlife to the EDC members.

4) Estimation of Herbivore & Carnivore population.

5) Identification of Birds

6) Legal training to frontline staff.

-57-


13.1.1 – The plan budget :

Presently Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary receives funds from the state

government only and part from the Central Government. However the funds

made available is very meager compared to what is proposed in the

management plan and the purpose of writing this plan is not served unless the

proposed works are completed within the plan period and adhering to the

proposed management plan.

13.1.2 – Programme of works :

The program of works indicating the year, quantity of work

and their financial implications is furnished at ANNEXURE –XX1.

The programme is broadly divided in to six categories as :

Regular maintenance works

a) Protection works

b) Habitat protection and management

c) Eco development

d) Eco tourism

e) Infrastructure development for staff

and nature camps.

This classification aims at prioritizing different items of work in the

order of their importance to the management of the sanctuary. Whenever

there is budget constraint, the annual maintenance works should be

accorded priority. Programs like eco-development and rehabilitation of

inhabitants require huge commitment of funds and therefore may not be

possible under the routine annual programmes. They should be packaged

separately as independent projects and sourced appropriately.

Deviations: Any deviations in the Budget plan may be got approved by the Chief

Wildlife Warden Karnataka as per site specific situations and requirements.

The detailed plan of works for

each beat and sections of the

Sanctuary was obtained from the

concerned beat guards and

foresters and shown in the

respective section maps and these

are furnished in Plates 9 and 10

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary Management Plan January 2011 – December 2015

-58-

13.1.3- Monitoring of PA :

The PA has a fairly large human and cattle population who use the Sanctuary

regularly. Consequently there is pressure on the density of wild animals. Change in the

population levels is hardly discernible and unless they are monitored at regular intervals.

The effect of protection and management cannot be determined. Therefore, population

estimates should be undertaken inside the sanctuary biannually for major animals, rare birds,

reptiles, and data should be documented. Qualified scientists, wildlife enthusiasts and

volunteers from the local organizations may be associated with these surveys. In addition

the anti poaching camps, staff deployed on regular patrol duties should also record animal

sightings, which will also give a fair estimate of the population trends. A register should be

maintained at the anti poaching camp where daily observations are to be recorded. Periodic

review of the registers should be undertaken. Regular surveillance should be kept on

communicable diseases within the sanctuary and record of their occurrence should be

maintained. A watch on the tourist impact would also be worthwhile.

Mahseer Fish

Otter


Annexure 4

Dark

Wildlife wing

No need department

Softwood ballimane –fill the gap slogan

Annexure 7- correction

Annexure 12 – name the flower

Bring down the management plan

Annexure 17 –dark

Anne-18 –correction – photo –

Anne –19

Aneexure 20- do & donts

Plate2- heading bold

Documents

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary