Conservation planning for the Garha corridor: baseline data and strategy
In the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, establishing connectivity between key source sites is mandatory. As wildlife landscapes experience fragmentation and habitat degradation as a result of land-use change, conservation in those landscapes depends on how effectively connectivity can be established between source populations. The Garha corridor separates the 500 sq.km area of the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (comprising Mala, Mahof, Barahi, and Haripur ranges) from the Deoria block. Administratively, the Deoria block consists of the Lalpur and Ghunghchai part of Mala range and the entire Deoria range. The study shows evidence of tiger dispersal from Pilibhit's northern forest ranges to the Deoria patch and indicates the functionality of this corridor. Recommendations to secure this corridor include approaches as a declaration of Eco-Sensitive Zone, working with Gram Sabhas and district administration to regulate land-use change and managing about 100 ha of land for afforestation through community involvement.
