Overview

The beautiful forest of Guatala Autramghat was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1986 to protect its rich biodiversity and mesmerizing wildlife. Spread over an area of around 26,000 ha, the sanctuary lies on the eastern flanks of the Western Ghats between the Satmala and Ajantha hill ranges. It is represented by the Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest in the valleys and grasslands on the plateau. Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary is not only an abode of overflowing biodiversity, it is also the home of a wide variety of cultural, historical and archaeological wonders. However, the area is marked by indigenous people who have been suffering from issues of poverty, health, and lack of education. These underlying issues force them to out-migrate in the cities to earn daily wages. Recently, the area has seen an upsurge in domestic tourism. This has overburdened the critical wildlife area with nuances of noise pollution, and solid waste. Tourism is expected to grow in the coming years that will exceed the area's carrying capacity. Over the years, the region also has seen significant climate change issues, water shortage, biodiversity loss, land-use change, and agriculture decline. The wild animals have been reported to come out of the protected areas in search of water and food, leading to conflict with the local farmers and tribes. In such a contented landscape, there is an urgent need for strategic planning, capacity development, alternate livelihood development and engaging the locals. Gautala Foundation Vision: To see nature flourish in the region, and people have a more profound appreciation towards nature preservation Mission: To reduce the external pressure on natural landscapes by catalysing active participation of local people and promoting sustainable development of the region Explore alternative livelihood opportunities for local indegenous people Promote environment education in educational institutions