Reported by Avik Chakraborty
Dibrugarh: Recent sightings of a one-horned rhinoceros and a Royal Bengal Tiger in Medela Reserve Forest have renewed calls from local residents and conservationists for stronger protection of the ecologically significant forest in upper Assam.
Located around 18 kilometres from Dibrugarh city in Madhupur, the Medela Reserve Forest has emerged as an important wildlife habitat following the confirmed presence of the two iconic species.
According to local reports, a rhinoceros has been residing in the reserve forest for nearly a year, though some residents believe more than one rhino may be inhabiting the area.
Adding to the forest’s growing ecological significance, a full-grown Royal Bengal Tiger was recently captured on a camera trap installed by the Forest Department inside the reserve.
The Medela Reserve Forest is already known for supporting sizeable populations of wild elephants and wild buffaloes.
The latest wildlife sightings have further highlighted the forest’s rich biodiversity and conservation value.
The presence of the rhino and tiger has generated excitement among local residents, many of whom are now urging the government to upgrade Medela Reserve Forest into a wildlife sanctuary.
Residents and conservationists have also called for stronger habitat protection and long-term conservation measures to safeguard the forest’s growing wildlife population.
Environmentalists believe enhanced conservation efforts and scientific habitat management could help preserve the region’s biodiversity while maintaining ecological balance in the area.
The recent sightings are being viewed as a significant reminder of Assam’s rich natural heritage and the need for sustained wildlife conservation efforts in the state.