Bhubaneswar: Strengthening its commitment to environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation, NTPC Bongaigaon created artificial canopy bridges for endangered Golden Langur in Assam’s Kokrajhar district with financial support of Rs 10 lakh.
The initiative was implemented in collaboration with the Haltugaon Forest Division and the Primate Research Centre, North-East India, bringing together institutional support, scientific expertise and field-level conservation measures for the long-term protection of the Golden Langur.
The Golden Langur (Trachypithecus geei) is one of the world’s rarest primates and is found mainly in western Assam and neighbouring Bhutan. The species faces increasing threats from habitat fragmentation, shrinking forest corridors and expanding road networks. As forest canopies become disconnected, these tree-dwelling primates are often compelled to descend to the ground and cross roads, exposing them to vehicular collisions, injuries and other human-induced risks.
To address this challenge, six artificial canopy bridges were installed at strategically identified locations across the Nadangiri–Baxamara–Amguri–Nayekgaon–Chakrashilla forest landscape. These aerial bridges connect fragmented tree canopies and provide a safer passage for Golden Langurs to move between forest patches without descending onto the road surface.
The intervention is expected to improve habitat connectivity, reduce the risk of road-related mortality and facilitate the safe movement of Golden Langurs between isolated forest patches. Improved connectivity may also support genetic exchange between separated populations, which is important for the long-term survival and ecological resilience of the species.
As part of the habitat restoration component, 2,000 saplings of native tree species were planted in the project area. The plantation initiative aims to enhance green cover, improve habitat quality and gradually strengthen natural canopy connectivity across the landscape.
The project seeks to create long-term conservation outcomes by combining wildlife-friendly infrastructure, scientific monitoring, habitat restoration and public awareness. It also encourages greater involvement of local communities and stakeholders in protecting the unique biodiversity of the region.
Comments are closed.