Bhubaneswar,Oct 17: As part of preparations to introduce 14 Royal Bengal Tigers (RBTs) to Satkosia Tiger Reserve, the Odisha government unveiled 12 state-of-the-art patrolling vans on Thursday to bolster wildlife protection efforts.
The vans, launched by Additional Chief Secretary (Forest & Environment) Satyabrata Sahu and PCCF (Wildlife) Susanta Nanda, will be deployed not only at Satkosia but also at Kapilash, Balukhand-Konark, and Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuaries.
These modern vehicles are equipped with advanced features like GPS navigation, movable searchlights offering a 360-degree night view, and winches to aid in rescue operations, particularly during the monsoon. Painted with camouflage to avoid detection by poachers, the vans are also modified for use on steep and muddy terrains, ensuring accessibility in challenging environments.
The vehicles will enhance the capabilities of the tiger protection force, joint task force, and frontline staff, enabling them to carry out protection duties effectively. “These vans will play a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of both tigers and other wildlife,” said Susanta Nanda.
The initiative not only focuses on tiger safety but also on the protection of the sanctuaries’ biodiversity, flora, and fauna. The vans are designed to support animal rescue missions and improve surveillance, empowering forest officials to manage wildlife protection efficiently.