Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve’s Agoratoli Range officially reopened for the 2025–26 tourist season on Saturday, marking the beginning of a new chapter for both tourism and conservation in Assam. The inauguration was led by Assam Agriculture Minister Atul Bora and local MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, who jointly flagged off the first official safari of the season.
Meteka Loom Project: Turning Ecological Threat into Livelihood Opportunity
Alongside the reopening, a significant community-based initiative was launched — the Meteka Loom Project, inaugurated at the Agoratoli Community Hall in the presence of members from several Eco-Development Committees (EDCs), including Agoratoli, Dhuba ati Beloguri, Kandhulimari, and Tamulipathar.
The project aims to empower local communities by transforming the ecological challenge posed by invasive water hyacinth, locally known as Meteka, into an opportunity for sustainable livelihood.
“Water Hyacinth Is a Threat to Kaziranga’s Wetlands,” Says Field Director
Dr. Sonali Ghosh, Field Director of Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, explained, “Water hyacinth has become a major ecological threat in Kaziranga’s wetlands, choking waterways, depleting oxygen levels, obstructing wildlife movement, and impacting local fishing communities.”
She elaborated that through the Meteka Loom, community groups will now produce over 100 varieties of eco-friendly handicrafts and handmade paper, thereby converting the weed into a valuable resource.
Nature-Positive Innovation Driving Sustainable Change
Dr. Ghosh added, “The program exemplifies Kaziranga’s commitment to converting ecological challenges into sustainable development opportunities. We look forward to welcoming visitors to Agoratoli this season while continuing to empower local communities through nature-positive innovation.”
Officials emphasized that this initiative reflects Kaziranga’s evolving conservation model — one that balances ecological preservation with community well-being. The integration of local craftsmanship into conservation efforts is expected to boost tourism appeal while ensuring livelihood resilience among surrounding villages.
With the Agoratoli Range reopening and the launch of the Meteka Loom initiative, Kaziranga once again stands as a symbol of Assam’s harmony between nature, culture, and community.
