The Nawegaon Nagzira Tiger Reserve (NNTR) officially gained unified control of its notified buffer area on 1 April. Since then, the NNTR management, under the guidance of Field Director Piyusha Jagtap and Deputy Field Director Pritamsingh Kodape, has been working to enhance tourism facilities with the objective of promoting regional activities. In line with this, from Maharashtra Day on 1 May, the NNTR management will open four new tourism gates: Murdoli (Goregaon), Madhavzhari, Jambdi/Dodke (both in Nawegaonbandh), and Pangdi (Gondia). The administration is making every effort to open all four gates by 1 May; if successful, there will be a total of 13 entry points into the NNTR.

 

It should be noted that NNTR is the country’s sixth tiger reserve, spanning the Gondia and Bhandara districts. With the inclusion of the notified buffer area, the reserve now extends over 1,300 square km, NNTR is renowned for its rich variety of flora and fauna, attracting thousands of wildlife lovers from across the country and abroad. The existing entry gates are Pitezari, Mangezari, Chorkhamara, Koka, Umarzari, Pitambartola, Bakki, Kholi, and Jambdi. Significantly, the Murdoli Gate—which had been closed for two decades—is situated on the Gondia–Kohmara Highway. It bifurcates Navegaon and Nagzira, serving as a vital wildlife corridor. A high number of tourists are expected at Murdoli due to its proximity to Gondia and the National Highway. Of the four proposed gates, Murdoli and Madhavzari are certain to open on May 1.

 

Preparations for the others are in full swing; however, if there is a delay, they will open within the following days, Kodape stated. Former Wildlife Warden Sawan Bahekar welcomed the decision but stressed the need for further improvements modelled on the Tadoba (TATR) and Pench Tiger Reserves. Speaking to ‘The Hitavada’, Bahekar said that alongside tourism facilities, water and meadow management must be prioritised to ensure overall success. Deputy Field Director Kodape informed that there are currently 68 gypsies available, with 25 at the Pitezari Gate alone. The new facilities will attract more tourists and generate employment for local communities. Notably, there has been no hike in charges, which remain at Rs 4,000 (comprising Rs 2,500 for the Gypsy, Rs 500 for the guide, andRs 1,000 for the foundation fund).