Rare blind cave fish facing threat, says MLA

Raipur, Nov 21 (UNI) Blind cave fish, a rare species found in the famous Kotemsar caves in tribal Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, is facing threat due to influx of tourists inside the cave, a BJP legislator said in the Vidhan Sabha today.

Raising the issue of conservation and management of rare caves in tribal Bastar district during the question hour, Mr Devji Bhai Patel (BJP) said the forest department, which is managing the cave, has not made any arrangements for the protection of these Blind Cave Fish, an endangered and protected species.

Blind Cave Fish, an endangered and protected species, is named for what it lacks - eyes. Although totally devoid of eyes, they have an uncanny ability to navigate adeptly, apparently by bouncing sound waves off objects around them.

Originating from deep caves, where the lack of light and predators has made vision unnecessary.

Replying to the question, Forest Minister Brijmohan Agrawal said Kotemsar Caves, Kailash Caves and Dandak caves, located in the Kanger Valley National Park area in Bastar district, were open for tourists.

As these caves were located in the dense forests, the minister said, the state government was not in a position to undertake any construction or such activities due to its prohibition under the Forest Conservation Act.

''We will take appropriate steps if we get clearance to undertake any such activity,'' he added.

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