COOCHBEHAR (WB), Feb 12

There is still no clear vision among planners, policymakers and transport experts about what will make Indian cities better places to live in as far as mobility and access are concerned. The prevailing mythology is that construction of metro rail systems will somehow solve the problems of the future.

Railways and highways are a major source of wildlife mortality throughout the world. Railways also cause direct loss of habitat, degradation of habitat quality, habitat fragmentation, population fragmentation/ isolation and reduce access to vital habitats. In India also, a large number of wild species are being killed annually due to railways and highways.

The British began extending their control over forests in India
(including Uttaranchal, or Uttarakhand) after passing the Forest Acts of 1865 and 1878. This was driven by the increasing demand for timber, and hence the growing significance of forests as a source of revenue. Forests also acquired strategic importance with the growing requirement for timber for the expanding railway network.

Elephants and human beings in Rajaji National Park in northern India are increasingly arriving into conflict because of the conversion of elephant's natural habitat into agricultural areas. Besides, railway track which passes through the park area, national highways, anthropogenic activities etc are restricting frequent movement of elephants within their home range.

The Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus) population in Rajaji National Park, north-west India is an important part of India's heritage, but has not been intensively studied until recently. Understanding the population dynamics is important for managers if the population is to remain viable.

When Kolkata turned into a

the Rs 5,745-crore Mumbai Urban Transport Project's second phase (mutp-ii) for a suburban railway is facing a roadblock because the Union ministry of railways and the Maharashtra government disagree

Based on primary source material, this paper unravels the undermining of development of vital transport infrastructure in Orissa, namely, Paradeep port and a proposed railway line for exploiting the rich mineral resources of the state

The island of Majuli on the river Brahmaputra has been under constant threat from floods as well as rising erosion levels. Tension has simmered between development agencies responsible for flood control and the local people who have opposed the structural measures. The proposed Bogibeel bridge has evoked concerns that the conflict will see an escalation.

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