Kathmandu - The highly anticipated census of Nepal's one-horned rhinoceros, an endangered species, has been postponed this year due to a lack of funds. Traditionally conducted every five years, the census plays a vital role in monitoring the population and health of this rare species. However, the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) has confirmed that financial constraints have made it impossible to carry out the operation as scheduled.
In the past, Nepal relied heavily on international donor support to conduct the rhino census. A significant portion of the funding came from the 'Jal Jungle Project,' a program operated under the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This initiative had committed approximately NPR 5 million to procure essential equipment, including GPS devices, laptops, and tents. However, the suspension of the project has resulted in a funding gap, leaving the total estimated budget of NPR 15 million unmet.
Despite the setback, the DNPWC has assured stakeholders that it will continue to monitor the rhino population through existing methods, such as tracking individual rhino signals and observations from park posts. While these efforts are expected to provide valuable data, experts emphasize that a comprehensive census is crucial for long-term conservation strategies.
Nepal’s rhino population has seen a remarkable recovery over the decades due to concerted conservation efforts. From a mere 100 individuals in 1965, the population rose to 752 in the 2021 census. This included 694 rhinos in Chitwan National Park, 38 in Bardiya National Park, 18 in Shukla Phanta National Park, and 3 in Parsa National Park.
The delay in the census raises concerns among conservationists, who fear that the lack of accurate population data could hinder efforts to address threats such as habitat degradation and poaching. The DNPWC has expressed its commitment to finding alternative funding sources and resuming the census at the earliest opportunity.
This development serves as a reminder of the importance of sustained financial and logistical support for conservation programs, especially in biodiversity-rich countries like Nepal. The one-horned rhinoceros is not just a symbol of Nepal’s wildlife heritage but also a testament to the success of global conservation partnerships.
Ecosphere News remains dedicated to providing updates on this critical issue, advocating for the preservation of endangered species and their habitats.
