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Saturday, July 29, 2023

Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, and it provides a habitat for various species of plants and animals. 


The sanctuary offers opportunities for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers to explore the natural beauty and observe the diverse wildlife. Visitors can take guided safaris, nature walks, and birdwatching tours to experience the sanctuary's wilderness.


Table of Contents

  • Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Location
  • Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary History
  • Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Area
  • Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Hills
  • Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary River
  • Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Lake
  • Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Tribe
  • Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
  • Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna
    • Mammals
    • Birds
    • Reptile
  • Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions


Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kabirdham district (Kawardha district) of Chhattisgarh, which is in the central part of India.


The Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary shares border with Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh while Guru Ghasidas National Park is a vital corridor stretching from the Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh to the Palamau Tiger Reserve in Jharkhand.


Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

Swami Vivekananda Airport (also known as Raipur Airport) is the nearest airport to the Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located in Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh. The airport is approximately 120 to 130 kilometers (about 75 to 81 miles) away from the sanctuary, and it serves as the main airport for the region.


Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

Bilaspur Junction is the nearest major railway station to the Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary. It is situated in Bilaspur city, Chhattisgarh. The distance from Bilaspur Junction to the sanctuary is around 150 to 160 kilometers (approximately 93 to 99 miles).




Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary History

The history of the Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary dates back to its establishment as a protected area. Here's a brief overview of its history:


Establishment and Geographical Context: Bhormadev Sanctuary was notified in the year 2001.With the formation of Chhattisgarh as a new state, the Bhoramdev Sanctuary, along with the Chilphi Valley, became a part of the state. This area served as an extended buffer zone of Kanha National Park and played a crucial role as a corridor between Kanha National Park and Achanakmar.


Proposal for Tiger Reserve Status: In 2017, the then Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Raman Singh, approved the proposal for notifying the Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve.


Recommendation by NTCA: The decision to designate the sanctuary as a tiger reserve came after a recommendation from India's National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), recognizing its significance as a critical part of the tiger habitat in the central Indian landscape.


Dropping the Tiger Reserve Idea: In 2018, the idea of declaring Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve was abandoned. One of the primary reasons behind this decision was the presence of the local Baiga tribal population living in and around the sanctuary. These tribes were not willing to relocate elsewhere, and the government respected their wishes, leading to the rejection of the NTCA's request. The protection and preservation of their habitat and way of life were considered important factors in this decision.




Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 351.25 square kilometers (135.68 square miles) of land. This vast expanse provides a habitat for various wildlife species and contributes to the conservation of biodiversity in the region.




Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Hills

The Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by its diverse topography, and it includes several hills, with Maigal Hill being one of them. Maigal Hill is known for its natural beauty and is an integral part of the sanctuary's landscape. These hills add to the scenic charm of the sanctuary and provide a suitable habitat for various wildlife species that thrive in the region. 




Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary River

The Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is blessed with the presence of the Sakari River, which flows through the sanctuary's territory. The river serves as a crucial water source for the diverse wildlife inhabiting the sanctuary. It provides a vital supply of drinking water, ensuring the survival and sustenance of various animal species that depend on it for their daily needs.


The Sakari River not only supports the resident wildlife within the sanctuary but also attracts a wide range of animals from the surrounding areas, especially during dry seasons when water sources may become scarce in other regions. As a result, the river plays a significant role in maintaining the ecological balance and biodiversity of the sanctuary.


In addition to being essential for wildlife, the Sakari River also enhances the natural beauty of the sanctuary, adding to its overall appeal for visitors and nature enthusiasts. The presence of the river creates a diverse habitat, attracting different bird species and providing opportunities for various aquatic and terrestrial wildlife sightings.


The conservation and protection of the Sakari River and its surroundings are essential to ensure the well-being of the wildlife and maintain the ecological integrity of the Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary.




Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Lake

There were two reservoirs located inside the Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary. These reservoirs are man-made lakes and play a significant role in supporting the wildlife and maintaining the ecological balance of the sanctuary.


(1) Sherpani Jalashay:

This reservoir, also known as Sherpani Lake, is one of the prominent water bodies within the Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary. It serves as a water source for the wildlife inhabiting the sanctuary and attracts a variety of animal and bird species. The presence of Sherpani Jalashay enhances the sanctuary's overall biodiversity and provides opportunities for wildlife observation.


(2) Sarodha Reservoir:

Sarodha is another man-made reservoir located within the sanctuary. Like Sherpani Jalashay, Sarodha Reservoir also contributes to the availability of water for the sanctuary's wildlife, especially during dry seasons. It supports a variety of aquatic life and attracts animals that come to drink and bathe.




Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Tribe

The Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Chhattisgarh, India, and it is home to various tribal communities, with the Baiga tribe being one of the prominent indigenous groups residing in and around the sanctuary.


The Baiga tribe is an ancient indigenous community with a unique cultural heritage and traditional way of life. They have been living in the central Indian region, including parts of Chhattisgarh, for generations. The Baiga people have a strong connection with the natural environment and have coexisted with the forests and wildlife of the region for centuries.


The Baiga tribe has their distinct customs, language, and traditional knowledge related to agriculture, medicinal plants, and forest management. They often rely on the forest for their livelihood, gathering food, and herbal medicines, as well as practicing shifting cultivation in some areas.




Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by its rich and diverse flora, which includes various types of vegetation due to its varied topography and climatic conditions. Here are some of the notable flora found in the sanctuary:


(1) Dry Deciduous Forests:

The sanctuary is primarily covered by dry deciduous forests, which are dominated by trees that shed their leaves during the dry season. Common tree species in this type of forest include Sal (Shorea robusta), Teak (Tectona grandis), Mahua (Madhuca longifolia), tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon), and Bija (Pterocarpus marsupium).


(2) Bamboo Groves:

Bamboo is abundant in certain areas of the sanctuary, forming dense groves. Bamboo provides a crucial habitat for various wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects.


(3) Grasslands:

Apart from forests, the sanctuary also features grasslands, which provide grazing grounds for herbivores like deer and wild boars. These grassy areas also support a diverse range of insect and bird species.


(4) Medicinal Plants:

The Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is known to harbor numerous medicinal plants used by local tribal communities for traditional healthcare practices. These plants have significant cultural and medicinal importance.


(5) Aquatic Plants:

The presence of reservoirs and water bodies within the sanctuary allows for the growth of aquatic plants such as water lilies, lotuses, and various submerged plants that provide habitat and food sources for aquatic animals and birds.


(6) Climbers and Epiphytes:

The sanctuary is home to various climbing plants and epiphytes, which grow on the trunks and branches of trees. These plants contribute to the overall biodiversity and add to the beauty of the forest.




Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

The Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is teeming with diverse fauna, showcasing the abundance of wildlife that thrives in its varied ecosystems. The sanctuary's protected status has allowed these animal species to flourish. 


Here are some of the prominent fauna found in the Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary:


Mammals:

  • Tigers
  • Leopards
  • Wild Boars
  • Chital (Spotted Deer)
  • Sambar Deer
  • Barking Deer (Indian Muntjac)
  • Sloth Bears


Birds:

  • Peafowls (Indian Peafowl)
  • Indian Pitta
  • Malabar Pied Hornbill 
  • Various species of Eagles, Hawks, and Vultures
  • Indian Roller
  • Jungle Fowl (Red Junglefowl)
  • Parakeets and Parrots
  • Kingfishers
  • Owls and Nightjars


Reptiles:

  • Indian Rock Python
  • Cobras
  • Vipers
  • Rat Snake
  • Monitor Lizards




Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. Where is Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary located?

A. Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kabirdham district (Kawardha district) of Chhattisgarh, India. This protected area spans over 351.25 square kilometers (approximately 135.68 square miles) of land and is known for its diverse flora and fauna.

Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary

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