WII Raises Concern Over Management of PAs

MEE report stresses need for improved infra, scientific monitoring & biodiversity data for effective conservation

- USHA PERI @ Visakhapatnam

DESPITE AP being rated 'Good' in the Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) of National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries 2020-2025, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has raised several concerns regarding the management of the State's protected areas (PAs).

The recently released report acknowledged areas of progress but stressed the need for improved infrastructure, scientific monitoring, and biodiversity data for effective conservation. The WII evaluated three national parks in AP, including Papikonda, Sri Venkateswara, and Rajiv Gandhi (Rameswaram), alongside other wildlife sanctuaries.

Among them, Papikonda National Park improved from 45.5% ('Fair') to 60% ('Good'), while Sri Venkateswara National Park declined from 70.31% to 63.71% but retained its 'Good' status. Rajiv Gandhi National Park saw a marginal dip from 55% to 54%, continuing in the 'Fair' category.