Bandana Khuntia*
IHSE, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University, Khandagiri, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
Received : 16th May, 2018 ; Revised :4th July, 2018
Abstract: Chandaka- Damapada sanctuary is situated 20 km from the center of temple city of Bhubaneswar. Chandaka forest got the status of sanctuary by the Government of Odisha in 1982. It was established to provide inviolate refuge for elephant with a view to minimize their depredation. The aim was for overall protection of forest ecosystem, particularly for providing a safe heaven for resident elephants. It is a dense forest area covering an area of 193.39 sq. kilometers where elephants roam freely. The sanctuary is abutting both Cuttack and Khordha district. Chandaka sanctuary enjoys undulating topography with rich floral and faunal bio-diversity. Sanctuary lying at the North Western urban fringe of the Bhubaneswar city is ecologically sensitive area being threatened by the growth and development of Bhubaneswar along its fringe areas. Conservation and protection of biodiversity of Chandaka along with protection of key stone species elephant is essential. Conservation priorities like prevention of encroachment, implementation of forest laws, restriction of too many tourists and revival of water sources and adequate food availability and social development will lead to successful wild life conservation.
