According to the State Forest and Environment department, the Similipal Tiger Reserve is the exclusive natural habitat for wild melanistic tigers worldwide.
On January 24, the Odisha Government revealed plans to establish the world’s first melanistic tiger safari. The safari, located near Baripada, the district headquarter town of Mayurbhanj, will span 200 hectares along National Highway-18. Of this, 100 hectares will serve as the display area, while the remaining space will be allocated for veterinary care facilities, including a rescue center, staff infrastructure, and visitor amenities. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik shared the exciting news on the social platform ‘X’, expressing delight in providing a unique opportunity for tourists to witness the rare and majestic melanistic tigers exclusive to Odisha.
Susanta Nanda, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife), mentioned that the location, situated approximately 15 km from the Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR), mirrors the same landscape. The STR stands as the sole habitat for wild melanistic tigers globally, as indicated in the 2018 All India Tiger Estimation Report by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). Emphasizing the purpose of the safari, Mr. Nanda explained that surplus tigers from Nandankanan Zoo and those deemed unfit for the wild but suitable for display would find a home in open enclosures.
The State Forest and Environment Department expressed optimism that the safari would significantly boost wildlife tourism in Odisha. It highlighted the initiative’s role in showcasing the state’s dedication to preserving and featuring its distinctive biodiversity. Furthermore, the department noted that this groundbreaking attraction would provide a close-up experience of the rare beauty of these majestic creatures, serving as a platform for conservationists, researchers, enthusiasts, and the general public to raise awareness about their conservation needs.
Additional Allure:
Furthermore, the site’s proximity to the National Highway and its closeness to Baripada town are expected to attract a substantial number of visitors. This location is anticipated to be an additional draw for those visiting the Similipal Tiger Reserve. Mr. Nanda mentioned that the State Government’s proposal has received preliminary approval from the Technical Committee of the NTCA, and a committee formed by the NTCA will conduct a feasibility study at the site before granting final approval. Other necessary clearances, including approval from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), will follow, as stated by Mr. Nanda. According to the ‘All India Tiger Estimation’ report, there were approximately 20 tigers in the State in 2022. However, recent camera installations for tiger estimation have captured a significant number of tigers in the forests of Odisha.
