BHOPAL: Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, instructed that no harm should be done to forests and wildlife due to development works. In the meeting of MP State Wildlife Board in Mantralaya, he said that the Government of MP will take immediate action against those who harm animals and lush forests in the state. The CM was presiding the meeting held on May 28, attended also by Vijay Shah, Forest Minister of the state; Iqbal Singh Bains, Chief Secretary; Ashok Varnwal, Prinicpal Seretary Forests.
Vijay Shah in the meeting informed that Cheetah will come from Africa in November 2021 to the state. Moreover, the number of crocodiles in the Chambal Sanctuary has increased to 2176, number of dolphins to 82, and number of vultures has also increased. MP government approved 4-lane widening work of National Highway – 69 at Ratapani Sanctuary. Work on underground pipeline at Damoh-Patera Water Group Supply Scheme at Ratapani Sanctuary, Nimari-Prithipur Water Group Supply Scheme at Orchha Sanctuary, and Jabera-Tendukheda Group Water Supply Scheme at Veerangana Durgavati Sanctuary, also received permission during the meeting. Laying of optical fibers has also been allowed in various areas.
Permission was also granted for doubling and electrification of rail-line network of Katni-Singrauli in Sanjay Tiger Reserve, but with conditions. Chouhan said that the survey of Ghatigaon Sanctuary should be conducted in connection with Sonchiraiya bird (Great Indian Breasted bird), which is on the verge of extinction in the state.