In a significant conservation effort, the endangered red panda, once considered rare in Bhojpur district, has been spotted more frequently, prompting local authorities to launch a conservation initiative. The program focuses on two municipalities: West Tyamkemaiyum and Salpasilichho, with each municipality beginning a dedicated red pandas conservation effort in one of its wards.
Ganesh Shrestha, the chairperson of the collective campaign, stated that the red pandas, which is considered globally endangered, has been sighted more often in the district, spurring the need for conservation. With coordination from the Red Panda Network, the community-driven initiative has been launched in Tyamkemaiyum-1 and Salpasilicho-5, focusing on preserving these rare creatures in the area.
In particular, the forest areas near the Mundum trail in Tyamkemaiyum have seen increased sightings of the red pandas. The community-based conservation program, led by field staff, has successfully captured images of the elusive species, as shared by Shrestha, the chairman of the collective campaign. Additionally, in the Sumikh area of Tyamkemaiyum-1, redpandas have been observed in the Dhappar Ekraate Community Forest, further underscoring the significance of the conservation efforts.
Efforts are also being made to facilitate dialogues at the district level, with regular interactions and discussions with the relevant authorities to strengthen conservation actions, as explained by Ganesh Pradhan, the secretary of the initiative.
The program operates in close collaboration with community forests, the Division Forest Office, and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of red panda protection strategies. These combined efforts are expected to enhance the overall preservation of this rare and important species in Bhojpur.
