BACKGROUND

Sohgibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the Indo-Nepal international border, in the Maharajganj district of Uttar Pradesh, is full of natural resources. One can not only find dense forests and wildlife, but also a view of natural landscape. The area of this wildlife sanctuary holds a unique place in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is the only Bhabhar ecological region of Uttar Pradesh, where diversity is made on sight.

OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE OF THE CASE STUDY

This eco-tourism initiative, envisioned for promoting rural tourism, intended to -

1. Promote low impact natural tourism while ensuring ecological integrity.
2. Enhance the richness of biodiversity, traditional ecological knowledge and the value of heritage of India's forests.
3. Make the local villagers and other traditional forest dwellers financially self-reliant and to promote value addition of things made from local materials.
4. Reduce human wildlife conflict by creating awareness among people about the importance of wildlife.

KEY FEATURES

Some of the main attractions of Sohgibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary include -

1. Panoramic pools in the Nagwa and Sonari forest blocks.
2. Attractive large grasslands located in the Madhavalia and Laxmipur ranges.
3. Singrahana Tal located in the Northern Chauk Range.
4. Darziniya Tal and Gandak River located in the Nichlaul rang

IMPACT FOR LONG TERM

Agro-forestry tourism, horticulture, animal husbandry, village food, Van Tangia culture, flora and other local attractions have a great impact in strengthening the economic upliftment and livelihood of villagers residing near Sohgibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary.

ECOLOGY AND WAY FORWARD

Due to the forest area being located in the Terai, there is an abundant diversity of plants and animals. Many main species of plant and animal kingdom are present in the forest area. The 22.4 km long railway line was profitable in the form of tramway, whereas after that its commercial use has become unprofitable. Hence, the tramway needs to be taken care of in the form of environmental development and tourism. Sohgibarwan Wildlife Sanctuary area must be developed as a forest park by building a museum to decorate the historical heritage. The forest rest house at Ekma is in a dilapidated condition and it is important to renovate and furnish it to provide accommodation for the tourists. To ensure the safety of the museum and sanctuary area, it is necessary to do wire-fencing of 30 km of the forest boundary.