Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is a prominent wildlife sanctuary located in Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the largest wildlife reserves in northern India. 

The sanctuary is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. It provides habitat for several endangered and threatened species. It is especially renowned for its avian diversity, attracting numerous migratory birds during the winter season.

Table of Contents Location How to reach? History Area River Lake Flora Fauna UPSC Questions

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is spread across Meerut, Muzzafarnagar, Ghaziabad, Bijnor, Meerut and Amroha districts of Uttar Pradesh. It is situated is situated along the banks of the Ganges River.

It is situated near the town of Hastinapur, which holds significant historical and mythological importance as the capital of the ancient Kuru Kingdom. Hastinapur is approximately 37 kilometers (23 miles) northeast of Meerut and about 130 kilometers (81 miles) northeast of the capital city, New Delhi.

How to reach Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary?

To visit the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, one can reach the nearest major cities like Meerut or Delhi and then travel by road to reach the sanctuary. 

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. It is located approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) southwest of the sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is Meerut City Junction. It is located approximately 37 kilometers (23 miles) southwest of the sanctuary. Meerut City Junction is well-connected to major cities in India through regular train services.

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary History

Here's the information about the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary history:

1. Historical Significance: The Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary derives its name from the ancient town of Hastinapur, which holds historical and mythological significance. Hastinapur is mentioned in Hindu epics like the Mahabharata, as it was the capital of the Kuru Kingdom where the events of the epic took place.

2. Establishment and Conservation: The sanctuary was established in 1986 with the primary objective of conserving and protecting the diverse flora and fauna found in the region.

3. Ramsar Site: In 2021, the Haiderpur Wetland, which is a part of the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, has been recognized as the 47th Ramsar site in India. This designation signifies its international importance as a wetland of significant ecological value.

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary spans an approximate area of 2,073 square kilometers (800 square miles). It is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in northern India.

The vast area covered by the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses diverse habitats, including grasslands, wetlands, woodlands, and riverine ecosystems. These varied ecosystems contribute to the sanctuary's rich biodiversity and provide a suitable environment for numerous plant and animal species.

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary River

The Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is situated along the banks of the Ganga River. The Ganga is one of the most sacred and revered rivers in India. It is considered a lifeline for millions of people and holds immense religious and cultural significance.

The sanctuary's proximity to the Ganges River adds to its ecological importance and enhances the overall appeal of the region. The riverine ecosystem along the Ganges provides a unique habitat for various flora and fauna species. It supports diverse aquatic life, including fish, turtles, and other water-dependent creatures.

The Ganges River also attracts a significant number of migratory bird species, especially during the winter season when they find refuge in the wetlands and marshes along its banks. The sanctuary's association with the Ganges River makes it an attractive destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary Lake

Haiderpur Wetland is a significant wetland located in Western Uttar Pradesh, India. It has recently been recognized as the 47th Ramsar site in India. 

Haiderpur Wetland is situated on the Muzaffarnagar-Bijnor border in Western Uttar Pradesh. It is within the larger region of the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary. The wetland covers an area of approximately 6,908 hectares (around 17,069 acres).

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary boasts a diverse range of flora, showcasing a variety of plant species that contribute to its ecological richness. Here are some notable features of the flora found within the sanctuary:

(1) Dry Deciduous Forests:

The sanctuary is characterized by dry deciduous forests, which are dominated by trees that shed their leaves during the dry season. These forests consist of species such as Sal (Shorea robusta), Dhak (Butea monosperma), Khair (Acacia catechu), and Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo).

(2) Riverine Vegetation:

The presence of the Ganges River contributes to the growth of riverine vegetation along its banks. Trees like Banyan (Ficus benghalensis), Peepal (Ficus religiosa), and Neem (Azadirachta indica) are commonly found in these areas.

(3) Grasslands:

The sanctuary encompasses grassland areas that support a variety of grass species, which provide forage and shelter for herbivores. Species like Spear grass (Imperata cylindrica), Cynodon dactylon, and Themeda species are prevalent in these grasslands.

(4) Wetland Plants:

Wetland areas within the sanctuary harbor unique plant species that thrive in the waterlogged or marshy conditions. These may include aquatic plants such as Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), Water lilies (Nymphaea species), and various reed and sedge species.

(5) Medicinal Plants:

The Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is known to have several medicinal plant species. These plants have traditional and cultural significance in local communities and are used for their therapeutic properties. Some examples include Aloe vera, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum).

(6) Riparian Vegetation:

The vegetation along the riverbanks or riparian zones supports a mix of trees, shrubs, and grasses. These include species like Kadam (Anthocephalus cadamba), Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna), and Kachnar (Bauhinia species).

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

The Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse array of fauna, including several species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and other animals. Here are some notable examples of the fauna found within the sanctuary:

Mammals:

• Indian Leopard
• Swamp Deer
• Chital
• Sambar Deer
• Nilgai
• Smooth-coated Otter
• Ganges River Dolphin

Birds:

• Indian Peafowl
• Indian Vulture
• Sarus Crane
• Indian Roller
• Painted Stork
• Black-necked Stork
• Pied Kingfisher
• Indian Pitta
• Great Hornbill
• Indian Eagle-Owl

Reptiles:

• Gharials
• Indian Python
• Indian Cobra
• Common Krait
• Russell's Viper
• Indian Rock Python
• Indian Monitor Lizard

Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. In which district Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary?

A. The Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Meerut, Muzzafarnagar, Ghaziabad, Bijnor, Meerut and Amroha districts of Uttar Pradesh. It is situated is situated along the banks of the Ganges River.