Power threat to the bustard.

La Excellence IAS Academy

Power threat to the bustard.

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La Excellence IAS Academy | March 30, 2024 | Environment, Ecology and Disaster Management



Syllabus: GS-III Subject: Environment, Ecology and Disaster Management, Topic: Biodiversity and Conservation, Issue: Great Indian Bustard.

Context: The extinction of the Great Indian Bustard (GIB).

Threats to GIB:

  • Collisions with overhead power lines.
  • Dogs, pesticides, habitat loss.
  • Infrastructure development

Centre’s Arguments:

  • Burying power lines is deemed unfeasible.
  • Challenges include high costs and technical constraints.
  • Implementation delays persist.

Way Forward:

  • Balance needed for development and conservation.
  • Prioritize burying power lines in key GIB areas.
  • Demarcate suitable land for renewable energy.
The Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps):

·        Features a horizontal body and long bare legs, resembling an ostrich.

·        Once abundant across Indian dry plains, now critically endangered.

·        Population declined to 150 individuals by 2018 from around 250 in 2011.

·        Prefers large dry grassland and scrub habitats.

·        Protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Source: Indian Express

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