Sundarban tidal wilderness sustains the resilient Royal Bengal Tiger
Kolkata: In a dynamic landscape where dense forests rise from tidal waters and river currents shape scattered islands, the Sundarban has evolved into a remarkable refuge for the Royal Bengal Tiger. Marked by saline waters, shifting sediments, and changing tides, this unique mangrove ecosystem enables the big cats to survive within one of the world most challenging natural habitats. Spanning nearly 9630 square kilometres, the Indian Sundarban comprises 102 islands, of which 54 host human settlements while 48 constitute the Reserve Forest. Covering 4263 square kilometres, the Reserve Forest supports diverse flora and fauna, standing as the only mangrove forest globally inhabited by tigers.
Over generations, the Royal Bengal Tiger has adapted remarkably to the saline conditions and difficult terrain. Conservation remains a pivotal focus for regional wildlife authorities. During the 2024–25 tiger estimation exercise, camera traps photo-captured 81 tigers in the Sundarban Tiger Reserve and 20 in the adjoining South 24 Parganas territory, with one tiger recorded in both areas. The Wildlife Institute of India is conducting further analysis on the compiled data.
To minimise human-tiger encounters near adjacent villages, the Forest Department implemented preventive measures, including regular patrolling, camera trapping, technology-based surveillance, and nylon-net fencing along vulnerable forest fringes. Although historic species like rhinoceros and wild water buffalo disappeared due to ecological changes, the tiger continues to thrive. Range Officer Eco-Tourism Siladitya Acharya stated that officials work continuously to protect the fragile habitat and manage human-wildlife conflict.
He added that eco-tourism activities are strictly regulated to allow visitor access without disturbing the sensitive ecological balance. The continued survival of the Royal Bengal Tiger highlights the crucial necessity of conserving the biodiversity and ecological services of the Sundarban across all sectors. Protect species today.