RAIPUR,CG: In a ground-breaking discovery, the Chhattisgarh Forest Department has identified a rare and ecologically significant forest patch within the Bacheli Forest Range of the Dantewada forest division, extending into the Gangalur Forest Range of Bijapur.

Located at an altitude exceeding 1,242 meters above sea level, the forest is categorized as a subtropical broad-leaved hill forest (Forest Type 8), potentially representing the highest-altitude forest hill.

Traditionally known for its Moist and Dry Deciduous forests (Forest Types 3 and 5), state’s latest discovery introduces a new ecological dimension. The area is being referred to as a ‘Living Museum’, safeguarding plant species that may date back to prehistoric times, possibly even the era of dinosaurs. Some of the species found here are believed to be documented in Chhattisgarh for the first time.

The discovery reveals the enduring layers of biodiversity that have withstood millions of years of environmental changes, highlighting the resilience of nature and its ability to preserve life through the ages.

The findings emerged from a three-day survey led by Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Development & Planning) Arun Kumar Pandey, IFS, along with a team of ecologists and forest officials. The team included IFS probationers S. Naveen Kumar and Venkatesha M.G., Dr. Rajendra Prasad Mishra, Deputy Director of the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), M.L. Nayak, former Head of the Department at Pt. Ravi Shankar Shukla University, Raipur, as well as Devyani Sharma and Anurag Gupta from the Forest Department.

The survey team documented an impressive array of rare and ancient plant species, including Alsophila spinulosa (Tree Fern), Gnetum scandans, Ziziphus rugosus, Entada rheedei, various Rubus species, Canthium dichocuum, Ochna obtusata, Vitex lucoxylon, Dillenia pentagyna, Macherenja sinensis, and Ficus cordifolia. The Macherenja sinensis species may be unique to this forested hill region of state. These discoveries highlight the untapped ecological potential of Chhattisgarh's forests.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force V. Sreenivasa Rao, IFS, lauded the discovery, stating, “The Chief Minister and Forest Minister, both deeply engaged with tribal forest areas, have consistently supported the exploration and protection of Chhattisgarh’s biodiversity. This significant finding in Bacheli reflects their commitment and the dedicated efforts of the Forest Department.”

Arun Kumar Pandey, IFS, who spearheaded the survey, termed the finding a milestone in the state’s biodiversity research. “This forest patch represents a new chapter in our understanding of Chhattisgarh’s ecological wealth. Our department is committed to promoting and safeguarding such unique areas, and we are confident that this discovery will draw global scientific attention to the conservation value of these regions,” he said.

Dr. Rajendra Mishra, a biodiversity expert, highlighted the forest's distinctiveness, noting, “The vegetation here closely resembles that of the Western Ghats. Like the Kanger Ghati forests, this area is rich in diverse species. Additionally, the minimal anthropogenic pressure has allowed these species to thrive undisturbed.”

This discovery opens avenues for further research and eco-tourism development. The Forest Department plans additional in-depth surveys to explore the region’s hidden biodiversity. By sharing these findings with the broader scientific community, the department aims to enhance conservation efforts and raise awareness of Chhattisgarh’s unique ecological heritage.