Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC (Wildlife Sanctuary in Delhi)

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in Delhi, India. The sanctuary is named after two villages: Asola and Bhatti.

The sanctuary serves as a vital ecological corridor between the Aravalli hill range and the Indo-Gangetic Plains. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an important hotspot for biodiversity conservation within the urban landscape of Delhi.

The sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, hosting a variety of avian species, including peafowls, Indian silverbills, spotted owlets, Indian robins, parakeets, and hoopoes.

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary offers opportunities for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and researchers to study and appreciate the natural environment. There are several trails and walking paths within the sanctuary that allow visitors to explore its diverse habitats, including dry scrub forests, rocky terrain, and seasonal water bodies.

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the southern part of Delhi, India. It is situated on the Southern Delhi Ridge of Aravalli hill range on Delhi-Haryana border.

How to reach Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary?

1. Nearest Airport:

 Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi is the nearest major airport to Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located approximately 15-20 kilometers away from the sanctuary, and travel time can vary depending on traffic conditions.

2. Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest major railway station is Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station in New Delhi. It is located at a distance of about 20-25 kilometers from the sanctuary, and travel time can vary based on traffic.

3. Nearest Metro Station:

The nearest metro station to Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is the Badarpur Metro Station, which is part of the Delhi Metro's Violet Line. The sanctuary is located at a relatively short distance from the metro station.

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary History

The Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary has a history that reflects its transformation from a mining site to a protected area for wildlife conservation. Here's a brief overview of its history:

1. Mining and Quarrying: The area that is now the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary was historically used for mining and quarrying activities, which led to the extraction of minerals and construction materials. These activities had a significant impact on the natural landscape and ecology of the region.

2. Ecological Concerns: Over time, concerns arose about the environmental degradation caused by mining and the loss of natural habitats for wildlife. The need to conserve the region's biodiversity and restore its ecological balance became apparent.

3. Creation of a Protected Area: In response to these concerns, the Government of Delhi took steps to protect and rehabilitate the area. In 1986, the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary was established to conserve the unique ecosystem of the region and provide a refuge for various species of flora and fauna.

4. Biodiversity Importance: The sanctuary's location on the southern edge of Delhi, adjacent to the Aravalli hills, makes it an important corridor for wildlife movement between the hills and the plains. It provides a vital refuge for many plant and animal species that are adapted to this unique ecosystem.

5. Eco-sensitive Zone Declaration: Recognizing the importance of safeguarding the delicate balance of the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary and its surrounding areas, the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) took a crucial step in declaring an eco-sensitive zone around the sanctuary. In an effort to extend the conservation impact beyond the sanctuary's boundaries, an area of approximately 1 kilometer around the sanctuary, spanning across Gurugram and Faridabad, was designated as an eco-sensitive zone.

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of about 32.71 square kilometers (12.62 square miles). This protected area is characterized by its diverse habitats, including dry scrub forests, rocky terrains, and seasonal water bodies, making it an important hotspot for biodiversity conservation within the urban landscape of Delhi.

It is a part of the Sariska-Delhi Wildlife Corridor, which runs from the Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan to Delhi Ridge.

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary Hills

The Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on the southern edge of the Aravalli hill range, which is one of the oldest mountain ranges in India. The sanctuary encompasses a portion of these hills, contributing to its diverse ecosystem and providing a vital corridor for wildlife movement between the hills and the plains.

The sanctuary's location adjacent to the Aravalli hills provides a vital wildlife corridor, allowing animals to move between the hills and the surrounding plains. This connectivity is essential for maintaining genetic diversity, facilitating species migration, and ensuring the long-term survival of various wildlife species.

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Union Territory of Chandigarh, India. It is situated approximately 1 kilometer in the North-East of Sukhna Lake.

The sanctuary was established primarily to conserve the ecological balance of the region, control soil erosion from the Shivalik hills, and protect the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the area.

The sanctuary has been subject to various soil and water conservation measures, including the construction of check dams, afforestation, and engineering methods to reduce soil erosion from the Shivalik hills.

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Sivalik Hills of Chandigarh, India, near Sukhna Lake. It is situated approximately 1 kilometer in the North-East of Sukhna Lake. 

Nearest Airport:

Chandigarh Airport is the closest airport to Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located in Chandigarh, which is the capital city of the Indian states of Punjab and Haryana. The airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.

Nearest Railway Station:

Chandigarh Railway Station is the nearest major railway station. It is well-connected to various cities across India through the Indian Railways network.

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary History

The Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary's history is closely linked to the establishment and conservation efforts of the Sukhna Lake catchment area and its surroundings. Here's a brief overview of the sanctuary's history based on the information you provided:

1. Construction of Sukhna Lake: Sukhna Lake, a rain-fed lake located within Chandigarh, was constructed in 1958. However, in the years following its construction, it became apparent that the lake was experiencing significant siltation due to soil erosion from its catchment area in the Shivalik hills.

2. High Siltation Rate: In the 1970s, it was observed that the siltation rate of Sukhna Lake was quite high due to heavy soil erosion in its catchment area. This erosion was attributed to the ecologically sensitive and geologically unstable nature of the Shivalik hills. By the year 1988, the lake had lost 66 percent of its original water holding capacity due to siltation, which impacted its functionality and ecological balance.

3. Soil Erosion Control Measures: To address the issue of soil erosion and siltation, the Forest Department of Chandigarh adopted a series of engineering and vegetative techniques. These measures aimed to minimize and control soil erosion from the hilly catchment area, which was prone to erosion during rainfall. Engineering methods included constructing check dams, retention dams, brushwood structures, revetments, and spurs. Additionally, regular desilting of water bodies and appropriate disposal of the silt were undertaken as part of conservation efforts.

4. Afforestation and Habitat Development: A crucial step in soil conservation was massive afforestation efforts. Extensive tree planting and vegetation restoration were carried out, which led to the development of a dense forest area in the hilly catchment region. This forested area created an ideal habitat for a wide variety of fauna.

5. Formation of Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary: As a result of the successful soil conservation measures, coupled with substantial afforestation and the development of a thriving forest habitat, the area was officially designated as the "Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary" in 1998. This designation aimed to protect and conserve the diverse flora and fauna that had established themselves in the rejuvenated ecosystem.

6. Eco-sensitive Zone: In 2017, the Chandigarh administration had notified to leave a 2-to-2.75-kilometre radius from the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary as eco-sensitive zone.

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 2600 hectares, which is equivalent to over 6400 acres. It is a significant nature preserve that serves as a habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna, contributing to the conservation of the local ecosystem.

This area is ecologically sensitive and prone to soil erosion, making it important for conservation efforts.

Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary Hills

The Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Sivalik Hills of Chandigarh, India. The Sivalik Hills are a range of low mountains and foothills that extend across northern India, including parts of the states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana. 

Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary loacted in the state of Haryana, India. The sanctuary is named after the Nahar Village (Nahad village).

The Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary is significant for its role in conserving the Black Buck and other endangered species. It is also notable for its efforts in wildlife protection and education, including the construction of a protection center and the release of rescued animals back into the sanctuary.

The sanctuary's location near Rewari and its proximity to Delhi make it accessible by train, with the nearest railway station being Tehsil Kosli, about 6 km away from the sanctuary.

Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Rewari district of Haryana, India. It is situated in the Kosli Subdivision and is about 5 kilometers away from Kosli on the Kosli-Mahendragarh road. 

The sanctuary is approximately 36.9 kilometers from Rewari and around 100 kilometers from Delhi via Jhajjar. 

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary is the Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi, which is approximately 100 kilometers away. From the airport, you can travel by road to reach the sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

As for the nearest railway station, it is Tehsil Kosli Railway Station, which is about 6 kilometers away from Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary. This railway station provides a convenient option for those traveling by train to reach the sanctuary.

Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary History

The Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Rewari district of Haryana, India, has a history that reflects its transformation from a pastured land to a protected habitat for wildlife. Here's an overview of its history:

1. Origin as Pasture Land: The sanctuary's history dates back to a time when it was used as pasture land for the Nawab of Dujana. This area served as grazing grounds for animals and likely had limited human interference, contributing to its suitability as a wildlife habitat.

2. Reserve Forest Management: Before its designation as a wildlife sanctuary, the area was managed as a Reserve Forest. This suggests that there were efforts to protect and manage the natural vegetation and wildlife within the region even before it gained formal recognition as a sanctuary.

3. Declaration as Wildlife Sanctuary: The Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary was officially declared a Wildlife Sanctuary by the Forests Department of the Government of Haryana on 30 January 1987. This formal designation granted legal protection to the area and its biodiversity, prohibiting certain human activities that could harm the flora and fauna.

4. Infrastructure Development: The construction of a protection center within the sanctuary in the year 2012-13 indicates a commitment to providing facilities for the protection, care, and rehabilitation of wildlife. The establishment of such facilities demonstrates ongoing efforts to enhance the sanctuary's capabilities for wildlife conservation.

Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Nahar Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 211.35 hectares, which is equivalent to about 522 acres (2.1 km2). This area serves as a protected habitat for various wildlife species, including the endangered Black Buck and other fauna.

Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Haryana state, India. Situated in the Shivalik hills, the Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by its diverse topography, ranging from hills and valleys to forests and grasslands. This varied landscape supports a rich and varied array of flora and fauna.

Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Panchkula district of Haryana state, India. It is situated approximately 0.5 kilometers (0.31 miles) away from Panchkula on the Morni Road.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary is the Chandigarh International Airport. It is the main airport serving the city of Chandigarh and the surrounding region, including Panchkula. The distance between the Chandigarh Airport and Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary is approximately 28-30 kilometers (about 17-19 miles) by road.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary is the Chandigarh Railway Station. It is a major railway station in the region and is well-connected to various cities and towns across India. The distance between the Chandigarh Railway Station and Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary is also around 28-30 kilometers (about 17-19 miles) by road.

Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary History

1. Establishment as a Wildlife Sanctuary: The Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary was formally established as a wildlife sanctuary on December 10, 2004. This designation marked the recognition of the area's ecological significance and the need to conserve its diverse range of flora and fauna.

2. Creation of an Eco-Sensitive Zone: In addition to the sanctuary itself, an eco-sensitive zone was established around the Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary. Encompassing an area of 1320 hectares, this buffer zone serves as an additional protective measure to safeguard the sanctuary's ecosystems and provide a buffer against potential external threats. The creation of the eco-sensitive zone reflects a proactive approach to holistic conservation, ensuring that the sanctuary's integrity is maintained and the surrounding environment is also preserved.

3. Collaboration with Nearby Protected Areas: The sanctuary's proximity to other protected areas, such as Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary and Kalesar National Park, plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological connectivity. Collaborative efforts among these protected areas may include coordinated conservation strategies, research, and wildlife corridor development to support the movement of wildlife between these habitats.

Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over an area of 4883 hectares. This area includes two separate parts: 2226.58 hectares and 2656.38 hectares. Additionally, there is an eco-sensitive zone of 1320 hectares around the sanctuary. 

Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary Hills

The Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled within the picturesque landscape of the Shivalik hills in the Panchkula district of Haryana, India. These hills provide the sanctuary with a diverse range of habitats and elevations, creating a dynamic and vibrant ecosystem. The sanctuary's location within the Shivalik hills contributes to its ecological significance and underscores its role as a haven for a variety of plant and animal species.

The Shivalik hills are part of the Himalayan foothills and are characterized by their gently sloping terrain, lush forests, and diverse vegetation. The hills offer a range of microhabitats, from dense woodlands to open grasslands, each supporting its own unique flora and fauna.

Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Haryana, India. It is known for its rich biodiversity, particularly its avian population. 

Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for being a habitat for various bird species, both resident and migratory. It supports a wide range of avifauna, including waterfowl, waders, raptors, and passerine birds.

The sanctuary is part of an ecological corridor along the Sahibi River, which facilitates the movement of wildlife and helps maintain connectivity between different habitats.

Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Jhajjar district of Haryana, India. The adjacent villages to the Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary are Khaparwas, Bhindawas, Chandol, Dhakla, and Surehti.

It is situated about 80 kilometers (50 miles) west of Delhi. The sanctuary lies 5 kilometers northwest of the Bhindawas Bird Sanctuary and 46 kilometers northwest of Sultanpur National Park via road.

Nearest Airport:

The Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is the closest major airport to the Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary. It is approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) east of the sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

The Bahadurgarh Railway Station is one of the nearest railway stations to the Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located in the town of Bahadurgarh, which is about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) east of the sanctuary.

Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary History

On January 30, 1987, the Forests Department of the Government of Haryana officially declared the Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary as a protected area. This designation aimed to provide a safe habitat for various wildlife species, particularly birds, and to conserve the natural ecosystems present in the region.

Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 82.70 hectares. The sanctuary's relatively small size reflects its role in providing a specific habitat for wildlife and contributing to the broader ecological corridor in the region.

Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary River

The Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary is an important part of the ecological corridor along the route of the Sahibi River. The Sahibi River traverses from the Aravalli hills in Rajasthan to the Yamuna River via various conservation areas, including the Khaparwas Wildlife Sanctuary. 

The presence of the Sahibi River contributes to the availability of water sources within the sanctuary, supporting the diverse wildlife and bird species that inhabit the area.

Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Haryana, India. It is also known as Seonthi Reserve Forest. It is known for its significance in bird conservation and for providing a habitat for various plant and animal species.

Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary is recognized as a bird sanctuary, indicating its importance as a habitat for a wide variety of bird species. It serves as a crucial stopover and wintering ground for both resident and migratory birds, making it a destination for birdwatchers and ornithologists.

Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Kurukshetra University in Kurukshetra district in the Indian state of Haryana. The Chhilchhila Sanctuary is located in a depression which has a small lake created by an embankment.

Baba Rodanath Dera temple is on the periphery of the Chhilchhila Sanctuary.

Nearest Airport:

Chandigarh International Airport is the nearest major airport to Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located in Chandigarh, which is the capital city of the neighboring state of Punjab. The airport is approximately 100-110 kilometers away from the sanctuary, and it serves as a gateway for air travel to the region.

Nearest Railway Station:

Yamunanagar-Jagadhri Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary. It is situated in the city of Yamunanagar, which is relatively close to the sanctuary. The railway station is approximately 20-30 kilometers away from the sanctuary.

Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary History

1. Establishment: In a significant step towards conservation, Chhilchhila Lake was officially declared a Bird Sanctuary on November 28, 1986. This designation, made under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, showcases the area's vital role in safeguarding avian species and their habitats.

2. Eco-sensitive Zone: Recognizing the importance of maintaining the ecological balance, a protective buffer zone has been established around Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary. The intention behind this measure is to mitigate human impact and ensure the continued flourishing of wildlife and ecosystems within and beyond the sanctuary's borders.

Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Chhilchhila Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses an area of approximately 0.29 square kilometers, making it a compact yet valuable hub of biodiversity. Despite its limited size, the sanctuary supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, showcasing the resilience of nature. It serves as a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering a unique ecosystem that attracts various bird species. 

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Haryana, India. The sanctuary is situated in the Shivalik hills, a range of foothills of the Himalayas. It is known for its diverse flora and fauna and serves as a habitat for various wildlife species.

The sanctuary houses the Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre (JCBC), which focuses on the conservation and breeding of vulture species. This effort is vital for the survival of these scavengers.

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary's proximity to urban centers like Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Pinjore makes it accessible for visitors interested in nature and wildlife experiences.

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Panchkula district of Haryana state, India. It is located in the Shivalik hills of Haryana, specifically in the foothills of the Himalayas. 

The sanctuary is approximately 8 kilometers away from Pinjore on the Pinjor-Mallah Road, 10 kilometers from Kalka, 20 kilometers from Panchkula, 30 kilometers from Chandigarh, and 20 kilometers from Morni Hill station. 

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is the Chandigarh International Airport, which is located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) away. From the airport, you can travel by road to reach the sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is the Kalka Railway Station, located about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) away. Kalka is well-connected to various major cities and towns in India. From Kalka Railway Station, you can continue your journey to the sanctuary by road.

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary History

The history of Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary in the Panchkula district of Haryana, India, dates back to its establishment as a protected area and its subsequent conservation efforts. Here's an overview of its history:

1. Establishment and Notification: Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary was officially notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary by the Forests Department, Government of Haryana, on May 29, 1987. This formal designation marked the beginning of its protected status.

2. Eco-sensitive Zone Declaration: In 2009, the Government of India declared Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary as an Eco-sensitive Zone (ESZ). This designation aimed to prevent development within a 5-kilometer radius of the sanctuary, further contributing to its conservation efforts and maintaining its natural environment.

3. Vulture Conservation: The sanctuary is notable for housing the Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre (JCBC), which is dedicated to the conservation and breeding of vulture species. Vultures are critically endangered and face numerous threats, including habitat loss and poisoning from feeding on carcasses containing veterinary drugs. The center's efforts contribute to the recovery of these important scavengers.

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 767.30 hectares (1,896) acres. This area is dedicated to the conservation of diverse flora and fauna within the sanctuary's boundaries. 

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Hills

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Shivalik hills of the Panchkula district in Haryana, India. The Shivalik hills are a range of foothills of the Himalayas and extend across several states in northern India. These hills are characterized by their rolling terrain, lush greenery, and rich biodiversity.

The sanctuary's location in the Shivalik hills adds to its natural beauty and ecological significance. The hilly terrain provides varied habitats for a diverse range of flora and fauna. The elevation and topography of the hills contribute to the sanctuary's appeal as a protected area for wildlife conservation and eco-tourism.