Considering the extent of the rhinoceros area and the thick cover of the riverain tracts into which the rhinoceros can and do retreat, these estimates are not beyond the bounds of probability. Unfortunately, however, no serious attempt ever seems to have beeti made to estimate the numbers scientifically by sample surveys, by studying seasonal migrations, and so forth. A census is not possible owing to the density o the riverain scrub forest.
600, based on Forest Dept. estimate.
1000
maps of Chitwan and surrounding areas showing rhino occurrence.
In Kathmandu, before my tour, I noted down the estimates of rhinoceros population made by various people: General Kiran, S.J.B.R. 250-300 Chief Forest Officer 300-400 Captain Tej Jung Thapa 320 On arrival at the rhinoceros area, I was given the following estimates Divisional Forest Officer 320 Captain Gyan Bahadur Basnayt 530 Lieutenant Gaj Raj Joshi 380
60 officially listed as poached: 52 in Chitawan, 6 in Reu valley, 2 in Nawalpur. 24 horns were recovered, 13 people arrested and gaoled.
Jan-March, 12 cases (Chitawan 6, Reu valley 2, Nawalpur 4), 8 horns recovered, 7 men arrested
The Rapti Valley remained closed even to Nepali settlers, not only due to malaria, but it was strictly protected as the special shooting preserve of the rulers of Nepal. Only Tharus inhabit the area.
300-400, cf. Smythies 1942
rhino areas.
Map
either static or improving.
poaching probably at its peak
It would be safe to say that about 100 years ago rhinoceros were found all along the southern border of Nepal. Since 1930 they have been confined to the Chitawan area.
A special department of armed men to protect the wildlife has existed for many years. In 1957 it ocnsisted of 1 Commander (Captain), 1 Assistant (Lieutenant), 4 Subedars, 24 havildars, 122 Rhino Guards. It is surprising that more rhino are not shot by poachers. The officers in charge possess no maps, and appear to have no instructions to observe or study the rhino. Many of the rhino guards (sepoys) have received no training. The service conditions of these guards. Rs. 30 per month Nepal currency (? 1 7s. 0d.) with no rations, no uniform and no accommodation, are inadequate and are below those enjoyed by the hatisar personnel. Some of the ammunition does not ?go off'. No rewards or promotions appear to be awarded for good work, such as the capture of poachers or recovery of horns. As the value of these horns is very high and the temptation to a lowly-paid guard very great, a system of promotion and rewards would have a stimulating effect.
From observation obtained in Katmandu it appears that the last rhino in the Morang Dt. of SE Nepal was shot at the turn of present century.
Last rhino in the area immediately east of Chitawan was killed in 1927.
Some historical evidence that the Rapti Valley was once much more thickly populated than at the start of 20th century, and possibly malaria was reason for depopulation.
Official start of the Rapti Valley Multi-Purpose Development Program to settle cultivators from the hills in the western portion of Chitawan south of Narayangarh, at a rate of 2500 people per year. By March 1959, 12000 people had been settled here on 52 + sq.miles. A further 25000 people are expected to be settled. There are many unofficial settlers also. Recent malaria control measures have made the area better inhabitable.
In January, the Mahendra Mriga Kunja (Mahendra Deer Park) or Mahendra National Park, 68 sq.miles, wasa formally opened by King Mahendra.
Democracy came. Unofficial settlers started to come into the plains.
