GUWAHATI: The Gauhati high court directed Kaziranga National Park authorities to furnish an 'action plan' by August to curb rhino poaching. However, the park authorities, who were slated to submit a report on Thursday, sought more time.

At least 17 rhinos have been killed by poachers in Kaziranga this year alone. Last year, the figure was 27.

Following rampant rhino poaching, the high court took suo motu cognizance of the matter. Several PILs also compelled the court to intervene. The HC pressed for a permanent solution to the problems of poaching, encroachment and erosion in the park.

Facing criticism from the HC, the forest department sought public opinion to chalk out a long-term strategy to prevent poaching.

"The park authorities said they need help from several government departments like soil conservation, agriculture and revenue to stop the menace. Brahmaputra floods caused heavy damage to the park and eroded large tracts of grasslands. Hence, these departments need to be taken on board to protect the park. The high court asked the park authorities to submit its plans by August 5," said amicus curiae in the case, advocate P N Choudhury.

The park authorities recently organized an 'International Conclave' to collect suggestions from several international bodies on protecting the park. At least 60 national and international experts were consulted.

"Rhinos become vulnerable when they stray inside Karbi Anglong district during floods. The park needs an additional 2,000 sq km area for better rhino movement," said park director M K Yadava. A 'landscape act' for the park has also been proposed.

The forest department has planned to propose the establishment of a full-scale Wildlife Crime Control Bureau in Guwahati which will act as an enforcement agency as well. Fast-track courts to penalize wildlife crimes and an elite force of 'Smart Guards' are also part of the park authorities' draft proposal.