Resource Crunch Affecting Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve

Bandhavgarh tiger reserve is facing a shortage of resources and a crunch in funds is affecting the resettlement of 12 villages situated within the reserve. There is a need for a minimum of 240 staff, including forest guards, range officers and foresters to maintain the reserve, says CK Patil, the field director of the tiger reserve. The park is spread across 716 sq km and according to the last census there are 59 tigers inside, the highest density of tigers in the world. Around Rs. 250 crores are needed for shifting villagers out, but the process is not underway due to a severe fund crunch, says the field director.