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Communities’ role key in conservation

TNN | Oct 7, 2019, 04.03 AM IST

Vadodara: Wildlife expert Dr M K Ranjitsinh Jhala said on Sunday that crocodiles in Vishwamitri River can be conserved by
making community reserve. Jhala said local communities should take charge of the river stretch with the help of the civic body.
“The forest officials should educate local communities about the crocodiles, Vishwamitri River and its biodiversity. The
communities can then take over and work towards conserving the reptiles,” Jhala said.

“The other way can be conservation reserve where crocodiles can be conserved by the government. But for that the area
around Vishwamitri River should be transferred to forest department,” Jhala told TOI. He also appreciated Sabarmati Riverfront
project. When asked if he was in favour of Vishwamitri Riverfront project, Jhala, who had drafted Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
said, “Yes, Vishwamitri too can have a riverfront project.”

He added, “But it can’t be like Sabarmati Riverfront. There should be no concrete embankment on Vishwamitri River. One
cannot make it like a canal as there are crocodiles, birds, turtles and complete biodiversity along the riverbank.” Jhala is the
scion of Jhala family of former princely state of Wankaner. tnn

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