Bhagwan Mahavir WLS Mhade

Bhagwan Mahavir WLS

The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Goan town of Mollem. With a total area of 240 sq km, this is the largest of Goa's four protected wildlife areas, and contains within it The Molem National Park.

Mhade

The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa is a protected area that is being considered for designation as India's 55th tiger reserve: 

  • Location

    The Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the North Goa District, near the town of Valpoi, and is part of the Western Ghats. 

  • Size
    The sanctuary is 208.5 square kilometers.
  • Significance

    The sanctuary is home to a diverse population of plants and animals, including the critically endangered Long-billed vulture. It's also a vital part of the Western Ghats, which is home to the world's largest tiger population. 

  • History

    The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has recommended that the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary be designated as a tiger reserve. The proposal dates back to 2011. 

  • Status
    In September 2023, the Supreme Court refused to stay a Bombay High Court order that directed the Goa government to declare Mhadei as a tiger reserve within three months. The state government was initially opposed to the proposal, arguing that it would affect the rights of forest dwellers. However, some have welcomed the decision, saying that the affected residents could be rehabilitated.