Environmental conservation initiative under the ‘Root Connect’ project by The Midway Journey. Supported by Royal Enfield Social Mission. Aimed at improving waste management in Manas National Park, Assam.
Manas National Park:
- Location: Chirang and Baksa.
- Area : 950 sq. Km (Core Area: 500 sq. km.)
- Recognized as a wildlife sanctuary in 1922.
- Came under Project tiger in 1973.
- Set up as a National Park in 1990
- Declared World Heritage Site in 1985.
- It has the largest number of rarely found wild animals of India which include 22 species of endangered animals.
- The river Manas flows through it.
- Flagship species: Royal Bengal Tiger
- Wildlife: Hispid Hare, Pigmy Hog, Golden Langur, Elephants, Indian Rhinoceros, Wild buffalo, Wild Bear etc.
- Manas National Park is also a Biosphere Reserve.
Major Discussion Points:
- Study Findings: Evidence of waste accumulation in the national park.
- Core Issue: Waste consumption by animals = “another form of poaching” (Dr. C Ramesh).
- Call for Action:
- Educate children on waste management.
- Manas National Park to set an example in eco-sensitive areas.
- Strengthen scientific waste management
Key Initiatives Announced:
- Ban on disposable plastic items (as per central regulations).
- Steel reusable cutlery for Mathanguri area.
- Reusable storage boxes for forest camp officials to replace plastic bags.
- Checkpoint at Bhutan entry point to monitor disposable items from tourists.
- Dry waste storage sacks distributed for collection and recycling.
Impact & Way Forward:
- Institutional support for sustainable waste management.
- Zero-waste event model
- Root Connect initiative continues fostering environmental responsibility.
- A step toward systemic change for a cleaner and more sustainable future in Manas National Park.
