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In an attempt to save the near-extinct Wild Ass and other species, forest guards have created water points where water is supplied regularly in Gujarat's Little Rann of Kutch which faces severe heatwaves in summer. This is the only place where the Khur subspecies of wild ass exists.
This landscape, known for its ecological diversity, faces annual challenges during the summer as temperatures soar and water sources dry up, threatening the area's biodiversity. The heat and dry conditions in the Kutch region force animals to migrate towards human settlements in search of water, creating concerns for both wildlife and local communities. In response, the Gujarat Forest Department has implemented measures to safeguard the near-extinct Indian wild ass and other species. Jagdish Patel, a forest guard in Bajana, a part of the Rann of Kutch, explained the initiative and said that a total of 45 water points for animals and birds have been created in every four or five kilometres. "When the summer season starts, we create water points every four or five kilometres in various areas, about 45 points in total. Here, we supply water for wild animals like the Indian antelope (nilgai), jackals, birds, and other creatures such as boars," Patel said. "We ensure that these wild animals do not go to nearby fields or residential areas and remain in the forest area," the guard added. Supporting this effort, Pratap, a tractor driver from Wadia village in Gujarat, said, "I supply water daily to save wild animals and wildlife in the Rann. From February and March, when the summer starts, until the rains arrive, I go to all the points where there are water spots and supply water. The wild animals, such as the Indian antelope (nilgai), and other wildlife come to these ponds to drink water. I supply water to these ponds for them." Notably, Rann of Kutch is a desolate area, a sun-baked and saline clay desert with bleak possibilities for life. As a major part of Gujarat falls in the torrid zone, the state experiences extreme heatwaves in the summer. The Rann of Kutch, a sun-baked and saline clay desert, presents a harsh environment with limited prospects for life. Given that a significant portion of Gujarat lies in the torrid zone, the state experiences extreme heatwaves during the summer months. The efforts of the Gujarat Forest Guards and local volunteers are crucial in mitigating the impacts of these harsh conditions on the region's wildlife and ensuring the survival of endangered species. (ANI)
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