HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Jan 5: In a momentous turn of events, the iconic rhinoceroses have made a triumphant return to the landscapes of Laokhowa and Burachapori after an absence of four decades. This noteworthy homecoming is attributed to the successful anti-encroachment operation carried out in the region within the last year.
The anti-encroachment initiative resulted in the reclamation of 51.7 square kilometers of precious forest cover during the evictions in 2023. The concerted efforts aimed at restoring and protecting the natural habitat have created favourable conditions for the return of these majestic rhinos, marking a significant conservation success.
This achievement not only signifies the ecological rejuvenation of Laokhowa and Burachapori but also underscores the positive impact of strategic conservation measures in preserving the biodiversity of the region. The return of the iconic rhinos stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment of the government to environmental conservation and wildlife protection initiatives.
Chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared the joyous news on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Happy to share that after 40 years, our iconic Rhinos have returned to Laokhowa and Burachapori. They have returned within 1 year of our successful anti-encroachment operation in the region. 51.7 sq km of forest cover was retrieved from the evictions in 2023.”