BANDH BARETHA: FROM THE SILENCE OF STONES TO A NEW CHAPTER OF GREENERY

For years, Bandh Baretha existed in contradiction. While sections of its rugged landscape were damaged by illegal mining, its forests continued to shelter an extraordinary range of wildlife almost unnoticed.

- PRAKASH CHANDRA SHARMA

Excavators and trucks altered parts of the terrain, yet deep within the sanctuary, leopards moved through rocky valleys, migratory birds gathered around the reservoir, and fragile ecosystems quietly survived. Today, that neglected landscape is drawing attention again—not as a mining zone, but as one of Rajasthan’s emerging examples of ecological recovery and sustainable conservation.

Located in the Bayana tehsil of Bharatpur district, Bandh Baretha is centered around a historic man-made reservoir built on the Kakund River. The dam was envisioned by Maharaja Jaswant Singh in 1866 and completed by Maharaja Ram Singh in 1897. Originally constructed to address water needs in the region, the reservoir gradually evolved into a thriving ecological zone supporting forests, wetlands, and grasslands. In 1985, the surrounding area was officially declared a wildlife sanctuary, covering nearly 368 square kilometres.

Unlike Rajasthan’s more commercial wildlife destinations, Bandh Baretha has remained relatively untouched by mass tourism. This has allowed the sanctuary to preserve much of its ecological character. The region supports over 200 species of birds, including both resident and migratory species that arrive during winter. Waterbirds, raptors, kingfishers, and wetland species make the reservoir an important destination for birdwatchers and researchers alike.