Proposed Mahadayi Tiger Reserve & Kalasa-Banduri Project

Proposed Mahadayi Tiger Reserve & Kalasa-Banduri Project

In July 2023, the Goa bench of the Bombay High Court directed the Goa government to notify the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve . This decision followed demands from conservationists after a long legal battle. The Mhadei region, located in the Sahyadri mountain range—a UNESCO World Heritage site—is home to tigers, leopards, and diverse wildlife.

The Kalasa-Banduri project has been at the center of a dispute between Karnataka and Goa.

In February 2024, the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) deferred its decision on this project, citing its sub-judice status.
Karnataka has criticized the NBWL for delays and announced plans for an all-party delegation to the central government.

Goa argues that the project could severely impact the Mahadayi River’s natural flow and surrounding ecology.

Conservationists also warn that the Kalasa Nala Diversion Project threatens extensive forest areas, making this a crucial environmental issue.