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Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Gir National Park

May 06, 2025 0

Gir National Park UPSC

Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir, is a wildlife sanctuary and national park located in the state of Gujarat, India. It is renowned as the last natural habitat of the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) in India. 


Established in 1965, Gir National Park covers an area of approximately 1,412 square kilometers (545 square miles) of diverse ecosystems, including deciduous forests, scrublands, grasslands, and rocky hills.


The Gir National Park also houses a crocodile breeding center. It offers a chance to witness different species of crocodiles, including the marsh crocodile and the critically endangered gharial.

Asiatic Lions in Gir National Park
Asiatic Lions in Gir National Park

Table of Contents

  • Location
  • History
  • Area
  • Hills
  • River
  • Lake
  • Maldhari Community
  • Flora
  • Fauna
  • Kankai Mata Temple
  • UPSC Questions



Gir National Park Location

The Gir National Park (Sasan Gir) is located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat in India. It is situated in the southwestern part of the Saurashtra region of Gujarat in the foothills of the Girnar range, which is an extension of the Western Ghats. 


The Gir National Park is well-connected to the major cities of Gujarat, with good road and rail networks. The Gir National Park is approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles) southeast of the city of Junagadh and around 360 kilometers (224 miles) southwest of the city of Ahmedabad. 


Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Gir National Park is Keshod airport and Rajkot airport. The Keshod airport is located around 70 km from the park, whereas the Rajkot airport is at a distance of around 160 km.


Nearest Railway Station:

When it comes to the nearest railway station, the Junagadh Railway Station is the closest to Gir National Park. It is located approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) from the park. The Junagadh Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat and other parts of India through regular train services. From Junagadh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gir National Park.

Gir National Park


Gir National Park History

Gir National Park has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Here's an overview of the park's history:


1. Historical Significance: The region where Gir National Park is located has historical significance as it was once a royal hunting ground for the Nawabs (rulers) of Junagadh. The area was used for hunting purposes by the royals and their guests.


2. Conservation Efforts: In the early 20th century, the population of Asiatic lions in the Gir forest faced a severe decline due to hunting and habitat loss. Recognizing the need for conservation, the Nawab of Junagadh initiated steps to protect the lions and their habitat.


3. Early Efforts: In 1900, the then Nawab of Junagadh, Sir Muhammad Rasul Khanji, banned hunting in the area and took steps to protect the lion population.


4. Colonial Era: In 1913, the British colonial government declared the region a protected area  to provide further protection to the lions. 


5. Declaration as a Wildlife Sanctuary: In 1965, Gir National Park was established as a wildlife sanctuary to protect the remaining population of Asiatic lions. It was one of the first sanctuaries in India to be established for the conservation of a particular animal species.


6. National Park Status: In 1975, Gir Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a national park. This status highlights the park's role in preserving a fragile ecosystem and promoting sustainable development.


7. Wildlife Conservation Success: Over the years, Gir National Park has played a crucial role in the conservation of the Asiatic lion. Strict protection measures, anti-poaching efforts, and community participation have contributed to the recovery of the lion population. The park's success in conserving the Asiatic lions has become a remarkable conservation story worldwide.

Blackbuck National Park

May 06, 2025 0

Blackbuck National Park UPSC | Velavadar National Park UPSC

Blackbuck National Park, also known as Velavadar National Park, is a wildlife sanctuary and national park, located in the state of Gujarat, India. It is situated near the town of Velavadar in the Bhal region of Saurashtra. 


The park was established in 1976 with the primary aim of conserving the blackbuck, a species of antelope native to the Indian subcontinent.


The park is characterized by grasslands, scrublands, and saline plains. It provides a suitable habitat for blackbucks, which are known for their distinctive black and white coat and spiraled horns. 

Blackbuck in Blackbuck National Park
Blackbuck in Blackbuck National Park

Blackbuck National Park

Table of Contents

  • Location
  • History
  • Area
  • Bhal Region
  • River
  • Flora
  • Fauna
  • UPSC Questions


Blackbuck National Park Location

Blackbuck National Park (Velavadar National Park) is located at Velavadar in the Bhavnagar District of Gujarat, India. It is situated near the Velavadar village, which is approximately 42 kilometers from Bhavnagar city. 


Blackbuck National Park is surrounded by wastelands and agriculture fields on the northern side. The Blackbuck National Park's southern region, which borders the Gulf of Khambhat, lies in the high tide zone of the gulf and is prone to periodic inundation by water.


Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Blackbuck National Park is Bhavnagar Airport, located in Bhavnagar, Gujarat. It is approximately 72 kilometers (45 miles) away from the park.


Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Blackbuck National Park is The closest railway station is at the town of Dhola, which is about 50 km from the park.

Blackbuck National Park

Blackbuck National Park

Blackbuck National Park



Blackbuck National Park History

Blackbuck National Park has a significant history tied to its establishment and conservation efforts. Here's a brief overview of its history:


1. Hunting Ground of the Maharaja: During the earlier period, the area now known as Blackbuck National Park, or Velavadar National Park, served as a "vidi" (grassland) that belonged to the maharaja of the princely state of Bhavnagar in Gujarat. The maharaja utilized this grassland as a hunting ground, where he would pursue blackbucks with the assistance of his famous hunting cheetahs.


2. Declaration as a Reserve Forest: In the early 20th century, recognizing the need to protect the blackbuck population from excessive hunting and habitat destruction, the area was declared a reserve forest. This step aimed to preserve the blackbucks and their natural habitat, ensuring their long-term survival.


3. Wildlife Sanctuary Status: As awareness and concerns for wildlife conservation grew, the significance of the area as a crucial habitat for blackbucks became more evident. In 1972, it was officially designated as a wildlife sanctuary, providing enhanced protection for the blackbuck species. This declaration marked an important milestone in the park's history and demonstrated a commitment to preserve its unique ecosystem.


4. Establishment as Blackbuck National Park: Building upon its status as a wildlife sanctuary, in 1976, the area was formally established as Blackbuck National Park. This step solidified its position as a dedicated conservation area exclusively focused on the preservation and welfare of blackbucks. The establishment of the national park facilitated more comprehensive management, conservation efforts, and research dedicated to the blackbuck population.

Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park

May 06, 2025 0

Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park UPSC | Marine National Park in Gujarat UPSC

The Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park is a protected marine area located in the Gulf of Kutch, along the western coast of India. It is the first Marine National Park in India. It is known for its diverse marine ecosystem and rich biodiversity. 


The park is home to a wide range of marine life, including corals, sponges, jellyfish, sea anemones, mollusks, crustaceans, and a variety of fish species. It also serves as an important nesting and breeding site for various marine turtles.


One of the main attractions of the Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park is the presence of the endangered dugong, also known as the sea cow. The park provides a crucial habitat for these gentle creatures, and efforts are being made to protect and conserve their population.


Visitors to the Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park can explore its diverse marine life through activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and boat rides. The park offers opportunities for nature enthusiasts, researchers, and tourists to observe and study the unique marine ecosystem.

Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park

Table of Contents

  • Location
  • History
  • Area
  • River
  • Flora
  • Fauna
  • Kharai Camel
  • UPSC Questions


Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park Location

The Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park is located in the Gulf of Kutch, along the western coast of India. It is situated in the state of Gujarat, specifically in the Jamnagar district. It is situated on the southern shore of the Gulf of Kutch. The nearest major city to the park is Jamnagar, which is approximately 45 kilometers away.


The Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park is located in the intertidal zone. The intertidal zone is the area above water level at low tide and underwater at high tide. Intertidal zone is also known as the foreshore.


Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park is the Jamnagar Airport. It is located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, which is approximately 7 kilometers away from the park.


Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to the Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park is the Jamnagar Railway Station, which is about 7 kilometers away from the park.
Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park



Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park History

The Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park has a rich history and significance in the conservation and protection of marine biodiversity. Here's a brief overview of its history:


1. Establishment as a Marine Sanctuary: In 1980, recognizing the ecological significance of the Gulf of Kutch, an area of 270 square kilometers from Okha to Jodiya was designated as a Marine Sanctuary. This initial step marked the beginning of conservation efforts to protect the marine ecosystem in the region.


2. Declaration as a Marine National Park: In 1982, a core area of 110 square kilometers within the Marine Sanctuary was further designated as the Gulf of Kutch Marine National Park. It is the first Marine National Park in India. This declaration was made under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 of India. The establishment of the Marine National Park aimed to provide enhanced protection to the unique marine biodiversity found in the Gulf of Kutch.


3. Conservation Objectives: The primary objective of establishing the Marine National Park was to safeguard the diverse marine ecosystem of the Gulf of Kutch. By designating it as a protected area, efforts were made to conserve and preserve the rich biodiversity, including corals, marine fauna, and their habitats within the park's boundaries.

Vansda National Park

May 06, 2025 0

Vansda National Park UPSC

Vansda National Park, also known as Bansda National Park, is located in the state of Gujarat, India. It is known for its rich biodiversity and dense forest cover. 


The park is home to various species of flora and fauna, including several endangered and endemic species. The dominant vegetation consists of moist deciduous forest and bamboo forests.


Table of Contents

  • Location
  • History
  • Area
  • River
  • Tribes
  • Flora
  • Fauna
  • UPSC Questions


Vansda National Park Location

Vansda National Park is located in the Vansda tehsil, Navsari District of Gujarat state, India. It is situated in the western part of the state.


Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Vansda National Park is Surat Airport (also known as Surat International Airport), which is located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) away. Surat Airport is well-connected to major cities in India and serves as the primary airport for the region.


Nearest Railway Station:

As for the nearest railway station, the Navsari Railway Station is the closest option. It is situated around 35 kilometers from Vansda National Park. 
Vansda National Park



Vansda National Park History

Vansda National Park has a rich history that dates back to the pre-independence era of India. 


1. Pre-Independence Era: Vansda National Park has a rich history that dates back to the pre-independence era of India. The area where the park is located was once under the control of the King of Vansda, who utilized it for various activities, including hunting.


2. Declaration as Reserved Forest: In 1942, recognizing the ecological significance of the region, the area was declared as a reserved forest under the British government's Forest Act. This marked an important step towards the protection and conservation of the natural resources in the area.


3. Declaration as Wildlife Sanctuary: In 1959, further measures were taken to safeguard the wildlife and their habitats when the area was declared a wildlife sanctuary under the Wildlife Protection Act of India. This legal protection helped in preserving the diverse flora and fauna found within the sanctuary boundaries.


4. Establishment of Vansda National Park: The culmination of efforts to protect the region's biodiversity led to the establishment of Vansda National Park in 1979. With the official designation as a national park, the area gained enhanced recognition and became a stronghold for conservation efforts.




Vansda National Park Area

Vansda National Park is spread over an area of approximately 24 square kilometers. Despite being relatively small in size compared to other national parks, Vansda National Park is known for its dense forest cover and rich biodiversity. 


The compact size of the park allows for easy exploration and close encounters with wildlife and nature.




Vansda National Park River

The Ambika River flows through the park, providing a water source and creating a diverse habitat for various flora and fauna species.


Ambika River:

  • Ambika is one of the major river in Gujarat, India. 
  • It is a seasonal river and receives most of its water from the monsoon rains. 
  • Its origins in Saputara Hill ranges in the Nasik district of Maharashtra. 
  • Ambika has a drainage area of 2715 km2.
  • Ambika river is 136 km long.
  • Ambika river flows through the Navsari and Surat districts of Gujarat before emptying into the Arabian Sea.
  • Gira Waterfall is on the Ambika river.
  • Ambika river is home to many varieties of orchids.




Vansda National Park Tribes

There are various adivasi settlements in Vansda from the Dangi tribes, which are made up of the Bhils, Kunbi, Warli, Chowdry, Gamit, Bhoi, and Kukna.


Dangi Tribe:

The Vansda National Park is home to several tribal communities, with the Dangi tribe being the most prominent. The Dangi tribe has been living in the area for centuries and has a unique culture and way of life. The Dangi tribe is primarily engaged in agriculture and forest-based activities such as gathering forest produce, hunting, and fishing. 


The Dangi tribe is known for their unique dance forms and music, which reflect their close relationship with nature. Visitors to the park can experience these cultural performances during their visit and learn more about the rich cultural heritage of the tribal communities living in the area.




Vansda National Park Flora

The Vansda National Park is known for its rich and diverse flora. The park is primarily covered with teak and bamboo forests, but it also has a variety of other plant species. 


The Vansda National Park also has a variety of flowering plants and shrubs, which provide a colorful display during the flowering season. There is a variety of colourful orchids at Ambika river in Vansda National Park.


Here is the Flora of Vansda National Park:

  • Teak 
  • Sadad
  • Bamboo
  • Dudhlo
  • Kakad
  • Khakhro
  • Buto
  • Timru
  • Umbh 
  • Kalam
  • Modad
  • Haldu
  • Sisam
  • Chopadi bondaro
  • Kusum
  • Tanach
  • Asan
  • Mahudo
  • Behda
  • Umaro
  • Shimlo
  • Ambla




Vansda National Park Fauna (Vansda National Park Animals/Vansda National Park Wildlife)

Vansda National Park is famous for which animal?

The Vansda National Park is home to a rich and diverse range of wildlife, including several species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.


Mammals:

  • Leopard
  • Rhesus Macaque
  • Wild Boar
  • Hanuman Langur
  • Common Palm Civet
  • Small Indian Civet
  • Indian Porcupine
  • Four-horned Antelope
  • Barking Deer
  • Hyena
  • Jungle Cat
  • Flying Squirrel
Leopard in Vansda National Park
Leopard in Vansda National Park

Birds:

  • Indian Great Black Woodpecker
  • Yellow Back Sunbird
  • Pompodour Pigeon
  • Malabar Trogon 
  • Shama
  • Common Grey Hornbill
  • Jungle Babbler
  • Forest Spotted Owlet


Reptiles:

  • Russell's Viper
  • Saw-scaled Viper
  • Common Krait




Vansda National Park UPSC Questions

Q. Where is Vansda National Park located?/Vansda National Park in which district?/Vansda National Park is located in which state of India?

A. Vansda National Park is located in the Vansda tehsil, Navsari District of Gujarat state, India.


Q. Which river flows through Vansda National Park?

A. Ambika river flows through Vansda National Park.


Friday, April 4, 2025

Biomes of Yellowstone National Park

April 04, 2025 0
Biomes of Yellowstone National Park

Biomes of Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, spanning over 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, is a vast and diverse landscape that encompasses several distinct biomes. The park’s varied topography, geothermal activity, and elevation differences create unique ecosystems that support a wide range of flora and fauna. The primary biomes found in Yellowstone include montane forests, subalpine forests, alpine tundra, riparian zones, grasslands, and hydrothermal areas.



Montane Forest Biome

The montane forest biome, found at elevations between 6,000 and 8,000 feet, is dominated by lodgepole pine, which accounts for approximately 80% of the park’s forests. Other conifers such as Douglas-fir and Engelmann spruce are also present, particularly in areas with richer soils and more moisture. This biome provides critical habitat for large mammals, including elk, moose, black bears, and wolves. Birds such as the mountain bluebird, Clark’s nutcracker, and northern goshawk also thrive in these forests.



Subalpine Forest Biome

At elevations ranging from 8,000 to 9,500 feet, the subalpine forest biome supports whitebark pine, subalpine fir, and Engelmann spruce. The whitebark pine is particularly important, as its seeds are a primary food source for grizzly bears and Clark’s nutcrackers. These forests are often blanketed in snow for much of the year, limiting the growing season to only a few months. Wildlife in this biome includes pika, pine martens, and mountain goats, all adapted to harsh winters and short summers.



Alpine Tundra Biome

Above 9,500 feet, tree growth is stunted due to extreme cold, wind, and a short growing season, creating the alpine tundra biome. Vegetation here consists of hardy grasses, sedges, and wildflowers such as alpine forget-me-nots and Yellowstone sand verbena, a rare endemic species. This biome is home to resilient species like bighorn sheep, marmots, and golden eagles, which have adapted to the thin air and harsh climate.



Riparian Zone Biome

Riparian zones are found along Yellowstone’s rivers, lakes, and wetlands, creating a distinct biome with lush vegetation. These areas support a wide array of plant species, including willows, cottonwoods, and sedges. The riparian zones provide critical habitat for beavers, river otters, amphibians such as the Columbia spotted frog, and bird species like the American dipper and great blue heron. These ecosystems are crucial for maintaining water quality and preventing erosion.



Grassland Biome

Yellowstone’s vast grasslands are found in lower elevations, particularly in Hayden Valley and Lamar Valley. These open meadows and sagebrush plains support large herds of bison, pronghorn, and elk, as well as predators like wolves and coyotes. Native grasses such as bluebunch wheatgrass and Idaho fescue dominate this biome, interspersed with wildflowers and sagebrush. Birds like sandhill cranes and bald eagles can also be found in these grasslands.


Hydrothermal Biome

Perhaps the most unique biome in Yellowstone is the hydrothermal biome, created by the park’s extensive geothermal activity. Geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles form extreme environments where only specialized microorganisms, such as thermophilic bacteria and archaea, can thrive. The bright colors of Yellowstone’s hot springs, like Grand Prismatic Spring, are due to the presence of these heat-loving microbes. While this biome is inhospitable to most plants and animals, it plays a crucial role in shaping the park’s landscape and scientific research.



Conclusion

Yellowstone National Park’s diverse biomes contribute to its status as one of the most ecologically significant areas in North America. From dense forests to open grasslands, alpine tundra to hydrothermal extremes, each biome supports a unique array of life adapted to its conditions. Understanding these biomes helps highlight the importance of conservation efforts to protect the park’s ecosystems and the wildlife that depends on them.

Friday, March 14, 2025

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary

March 14, 2025 0

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.


Table of Contents

  • Location
  • History
  • Area
  • Hills
  • Flora
  • Fauna
  • UPSC Questions


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

March 14, 2025 0

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.


Table of Contents

  • Location
  • History
  • Area
  • Hills
  • Lake
  • Flora
  • Fauna
  • UPSC Questions


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.