Indeed, the Mahendragiri Hills of Odisha which is a Biodiversity Heritage Site are threatened by the construction tourism projects. To preserve ecology and culture of the tribe activists are demanding biosphere reserve status.
Mahendragiri Hills in Odishi state are some of the most valuable ecological zones in India wherein, expansive construction initiatives are posing increasingly severe threats. Although it was proclaimed a Biodiversity Heritage Site in 2022, recent government-portioned tourism plans have raised concerns by conservationists which have alerted that this sensitive eco-system would be facing permanent damages.
Riches of the Ecological and Cultural Significance.
Mahendragiri originates more than 1,500 metres in the Gajapati district and a home to well over 1,348 vegetative species, (388 fauna, of which more than 300 are indigenous and endangered). The hills are equally rich in culture, and the Panchpandava temples are visited on a weekly basis throughout the year. The Saora and Kondh are tribal groups that have lived in harmony with its forests for centuries and relied upon its forests to sustain them.
Secured Position Making Money.
In 2022, 4,250 hectares of forest, including Idongiri and Mahendra reserve forests under the Odisha government came to be declared a Biodiversity Heritage Site. The recent plans to build tourist cottages, temple complexes and new corridors however represent threats to increase the presence of human footprint in this rather sensitive zone. A giant Parshuram temple project is on the cards too and its overexploitation is feared.
Request of the Biosphere Reserve Status.
Longtime supporters of taking Mahendragiri to biosphere reserve are the environmentalists. This was originally suggested by the Wildlife Institute of India in the 1980s, and supported in 2014. The proposal however it has not been fulfilled and the hills are open to unregulated development.
Wildlife Under Pressure
The loss of habitats will already take its toll. The Odisha population of elephants and tigers have also diminished drastically, accompanied by poaching. Elephant poaching is the leading cause of death of spirits in India, with Odisha experiencing the highest number of deaths between 2022 and 2024 and, therefore, showcases the urgency of more intense conservation efforts.
Finding a balance between Tourism and Ecology.
The idea to support eco-tourism rather than intensive construction is recommended by experts. Combining conservation of the soil and water conservation with tribal livelihoods, and heritage preservation into sustainable models might save nature and culture. Without these efforts, biodiversity in the hills can be lost, activists wanter.
A Call for Urgent Action
Organizing Mahendragiri as a biosphere reserve might legally protect and create a management structure upon which it most certainly requires. By protecting its ecosystems in the present day, we will guarantee that its biodiversity, culture and heritage is there to stay.