By funding the construction of artificial canopy bridges across the Nadangiri-Baxamara-Amguri-Nayekgaon-Chakrashilla Forest Complex in Kokrajhar district, Assam, NTPC Bongaigaon has demonstrated its dedication to environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation. This innovative conservation initiative aims to safeguard the endangered Golden Langur (Trachypithecus geei). The ₹10 lakh in funding for the project came from NTPC’s Sustainable Development initiatives and was put into action during FY 2025-26.
We worked with the Haltugaon Forest Division and the Primate Research Centre in North-East India on a project called “Establishing Artificial Canopy Bridges as Road Overpass and Linking Populations of Endangered Golden Langur through Village Corridor.”. Better habitat connectivity and the long-term survival of one of the world’s rarest monkey species are the goals of the partnership, which brings together scientific knowledge, forest management, and corporate assistance.
Habitat fragmentation, diminishing forest corridors, and expanding road networks pose significant threats to the Golden Langur, which is mostly found in western Assam and bordering Bhutan. The disconnection of tree canopies makes these monkeys more susceptible to human-caused dangers, such as car accidents, when they fall into roadways.
In response to this threat, six man-made canopy bridges were erected at carefully chosen spots, allowing tree-dwelling animals like Golden Langurs to traverse the fragmented forest patches without risking injury or death. This intervention aims to promote the long-term ecological resilience of the langur species by improving habitat connectivity, reducing mortality due to road accidents, and facilitating genetic exchange between populations that are currently isolated.
The project also includes scientific monitoring, which will be done by setting up three video traps. These traps will record the movements of species, analyse their behaviours, and determine how well the canopy bridges work. To further bring attention to the conservation needs of the endangered primate and to urge drivers to slow down, four signs emphasising wildlife awareness and road safety have been strategically placed along important stretches.
To improve green cover and gradually restore natural canopy connections, the project area has had 2,000 native tree saplings planted as part of the habitat restoration initiative. The effort seeks to foster greater community involvement in safeguarding Assam’s distinctive biodiversity by combining wildlife-friendly infrastructure, habitat restoration, scientific research, and public awareness. The goal is to achieve long-term conservation benefits.
The Golden Langur Canopy Conservation Project is an example of how a private company, the government’s Forest Service, and academic institutions may work together to find effective ways to protect endangered species. The NTPC Bongaigaon is reiterating its dedication to sustainable growth through ecological restoration and innovative infrastructure, which is helping to safeguard one of the most endangered primate species in India.
Image: DH
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