Agartala, May 14, 2026: The Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary in South Tripura’s Belonia subdivision has once again drawn attention due to the growing visibility of the endangered Indian Gaur, commonly known as the bison. Nestled amid lush natural surroundings, the sanctuary has long been regarded as one of Tripura’s most important wildlife conservation hubs and a major attraction for nature enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Known for its dedicated conservation efforts, the sanctuary houses a special “Bison National Park” zone established by the government specifically for the protection, free-ranging movement, and breeding of the Indian Gaur. Forest Department sources said that although bison were once found in large numbers across the region, their population gradually declined over the years due to shrinking forest cover, environmental changes, and scarcity of food resources. At present, a surviving population continues to inhabit the sanctuary, where sustained conservation initiatives have been undertaken for several years to ensure their safety and preservation.
Every year, tourists from across Tripura and different parts of the country visit the sanctuary hoping to catch a glimpse of the majestic animals. The sanctuary is also popular among international visitors, particularly during the winter season and the onset of the monsoon, when the landscape becomes especially picturesque. However, many tourists have expressed disappointment over not being able to spot the elusive bison despite visiting the sanctuary.
Forest officials explained that during the months of May, June, and July, the bison often emerge from the deeper parts of the forest in search of food and water. Due to insufficient grass and limited water sources inside the forest during this period, the animals frequently stray close to human settlements and agricultural fields. This seasonal movement has raised concerns among both residents and forest authorities.
According to locals from Rajnagar and nearby villages, herds of bison are often seen at night in paddy fields and areas adjoining human habitation. Though no major incidents involving human-wildlife conflict have been reported so far, residents have urged the Forest Department to take stronger preventive measures to avoid potential risks.
In response, the Forest Department has intensified surveillance across the sanctuary and adjoining areas to ensure the safety of both the animals and local residents. Officials stated that steps are also being taken to improve the availability of food and drinking water within the sanctuary to discourage the bison from venturing outside forest limits. Additionally, plans are reportedly underway to upgrade safari facilities and construct special observation towers aimed at improving the overall tourist experience at the sanctuary.
