Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary marks grand conclusion of Wildlife Week

Mail News Service

Seraikela, Oct 12: The Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary celebrated the grand conclusion of Wildlife Week with the inauguration of several new conservation facilities and digital initiatives. The event was graced by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) S. R. Natesh as the chief guest, alongside senior forest officials and local representatives.

A major highlight of the occasion was the launch of the "Abua Haathi" mobile app, developed jointly by the Jharkhand Forest Department and Tata Motors. The app aims to minimize human-elephant conflict by providing real-time monitoring of elephant movement and facilitating quick communication between forest personnel and local villagers. Officials explained that the app would enhance community awareness and ensure timely alerts to prevent accidents.

Structural developments inaugurated during the event included new shelters and community halls at three key locations within the sanctuary. Notably, the beloved elephant Rajni, often referred to as the "Pride of Dalma," received a new shed near the Deer Park to ensure better living and care conditions. A modern community center was also inaugurated near the Mukulakocha Museum for educational and awareness programmes, while a dog shelter was established near the sanctuary's main gate for the care of stray and injured dogs.

Local forest officials DFO Saba Alam Ansari, Ranger Dinesh Chandra and Aparna Chandra attended the ceremony and described these initiatives as "a significant step towards improving sanctuary management and wildlife protection."

Experts believe these innovations -- combining digital tools, structural upgrades and community participation -- will strengthen the long-term goal of peaceful human-wildlife coexistence. Dalma, known for its elephant population and biodiversity, is poised to become a model for eco-conservation blending technology with tradition.

'Abua Haathi' app launched to curb Human-Elephant conflict at Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary | The Avenue Mail