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Bhutan Expands Protected Areas With New Wildlife Corridor, Boosting Biodiversity and Communities
A Collaborative Effort Bridges Landscapes and Uplifts Communities
![](https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/c265d674-7397-4974-8fff-8bc6a2659d09/Bhutan-2.png?t=1708135051)
Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon nestled in the Himalayas, has once again showcased its commitment to conservation with the establishment of a new biological corridor, BC-9. This corridor connects the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary and Bumdelling Wildlife Sanctuary, creating a crucial passage for diverse species like the snow leopard and red panda.
The Ecological Significance
Enhances Connectivity: BC-9 bridges the gap between existing protected areas, allowing for wildlife movement across 5 million acres of pristine forests and rivers. This is vital for maintaining healthy populations and genetic diversity.
Protects Endangered Species: The corridor safeguards critically endangered birds like the white-bellied heron and the fish eagle, alongside over 810 plant species and the endangered arunachal macaque.
![](https://media.beehiiv.com/cdn-cgi/image/fit=scale-down,format=auto,onerror=redirect,quality=80/uploads/asset/file/7ca1be1d-daf6-4e5a-8a99-f8708d0f0efd/Bhutan-1.jpg?t=1708135106)
The Socio-Economic Benefits
Community Involvement: The communities residing within BC-9 are heavily involved in conservation efforts through initiatives like sustainable forest management and birding tourism. This provides alternative income sources and improves their livelihoods.
Cultural Preservation: The corridor encompasses culturally significant sites like Omba Ney, fostering spiritual tourism and cultural heritage preservation.
Collaborative Achievement
Government Leadership: The Royal Government of Bhutan and the Department of Forest and Park Services played a crucial role in designating and managing BC-9.
Conservation Partnerships: Organizations like WWF-Bhutan and Bhutan for Life (BFL) provided vital support, research, and capacity building.
By prioritizing both ecological and social well-being, BC-9 sets a strong example for conservation efforts worldwide. It demonstrates the power of collaboration and dedication in achieving ambitious environmental goals.
This milestone contributes to Bhutan's remarkable achievement of protecting 52% of its land area, moving closer to its constitutional mandate of 60% forest cover.
Further Reading
WWF-Bhutan Website: https://www.wwfbhutan.org.bt/
Bhutan for Life (BFL) Website: https://bfl.org.bt/
Department of Forest and Park Services, Bhutan: https://www.facebook.com/dofpsbhutan/