Ecological survey and Biodiversity Assessment of
Mahabaleshwar – Panchgani Eco sensitive Region

RANWA was assigned a task by the State Forest Dept. to systematically conduct ecological surveys and biodiversity assessment of Mahabaleshwar Panchgani Eco-sensitive Region (MPESR). Primary as well as secondary sources of information were used to compile information on MPESR available since 1823 to 2021. This is supported through field studies to assess present status of ecosystems and vegetation in MPESR. Unique and special features of MPESR biodiversity were mapped and analysed spatially and temporally. Management recommendations for the working plans of the Forest department and Revenue department were provided. 

Our aim is to inform development planners, policy makers and society at large regarding biodiversity and ecology of the MPESR to ensure that, in future, planning for localizing SDGs can be done with robust data on biodiversity. This will also help the regional authorities and grampanchayat to complete PBRs, mandated under the Biological Diversity Act 2002.