Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Chhattisgarh, India. The sanctuary covers a considerable area of forest and is an essential habitat for various wildlife species. The sanctuary derives its name from the Sitanadi River, which flows through the protected area, enhancing the natural beauty of the region.
The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. You can find different species of animals such as leopards, tigers, sloth bears, wild boars, deer, and various bird species. The lush forests support a rich diversity of plant life as well.
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is open for tourism, and visitors can explore the beauty of the forest and wildlife through guided tours. Ecotourism initiatives help raise awareness about conservation and provide economic benefits to local communities.
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Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh, India. It is situated in the northern part of the state.
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is the Swami Vivekananda Airport (also known as Raipur Airport). It is located in Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh, India. The distance between Swami Vivekananda Airport and Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is approximately 80-100 kilometers, depending on the specific entry point to the sanctuary.
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The Dhamtari railway station serves as the closest railway station to Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary. The approximate distance between Dhamtari railway station and Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary can vary depending on the specific entry point to the sanctuary. Generally, the distance is around 20-30 kilometers.
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary History
Establishment of Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary: The Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1974 under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. This designation was made to protect and preserve the unique biodiversity of the region and conserve the natural habitats of various wildlife species.
Tiger Reserve Declaration: In 2008-09, the Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary, along with the Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary, was granted the prestigious status of a tiger reserve, officially becoming the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve. This momentous declaration was a testament to the region's significant role in tiger conservation and aimed to bolster targeted efforts for the protection and well-being of the tiger population within the sanctuary.
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary Area
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 556 square kilometers, making it a substantial protected area. The sanctuary's altitude varies between 327 meters (approximately 1,073 feet) and 736 meters (approximately 2,415 feet) above sea level, encompassing diverse landscapes and habitats that support a wide range of flora and fauna.
With such a vast expanse and varying altitudes, the sanctuary likely houses a rich biodiversity and is home to numerous wildlife species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and plant life. This significant area and the diverse topography contribute to the sanctuary's ecological significance and its role in conserving and protecting the natural heritage of the region.
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary River
The Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary derives its name from the Sitanadi River, which flows through the sanctuary. The river is a significant water body within the sanctuary and plays a crucial role in supporting the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
The Sitanadi River is a lifeline for the wildlife that inhabits the sanctuary, providing a source of water for drinking and other essential activities. Its presence contributes to the overall biodiversity and ecological balance of the sanctuary.
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
The Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse and lush vegetation, which includes a wide variety of flora. The sanctuary's rich forests and habitats provide a suitable environment for various plant species to thrive. Some of the prominent flora found in the Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary may include:
Sal (Shorea robusta): Sal is a dominant tree species in the region and forms dense forests. It is highly valued for its timber and is an essential component of the ecosystem.
Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak is another valuable timber tree found in the sanctuary. It is prized for its sturdy wood and is extensively used in furniture and construction.
Bamboo (Various species): Bamboo groves are common in the sanctuary, and these fast-growing plants provide a habitat for various wildlife.
Mahua (Madhuca longifolia): Mahua trees are widespread and have cultural significance as well. The flowers and fruits of the Mahua tree are used for various traditional purposes.
Semal (Bombax ceiba): Semal trees are known for their large, attractive red flowers and are an important part of the sanctuary's floral diversity.
Haldu (Adina cordifolia): Haldu is a deciduous tree species found in the sanctuary, contributing to the overall canopy cover.
Terminalia (Various species): Trees of the Terminalia genus, such as Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) and Saja (Terminalia tomentosa), can be found in the sanctuary.
Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis): Also known as Amla, this small fruit-bearing tree is common in the sanctuary and is valued for its medicinal properties.
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
The Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse array of fauna, making it an important and ecologically significant protected area. The sanctuary's varied habitats, including forests, grasslands, and water bodies, provide a suitable environment for numerous wildlife species.
Some of the prominent fauna found in the Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary may include:
Mammals:
- Tigers
- Leopards
- Flying Squirrels
- Jackals
- Four-horned Antelopes
- Chinkara
- Black Buck
- Jungle Cats
- Barking Deer
- Porcupines
- Langurs (Hanuman langur)
- Monkeys
- Sloth Bears
- Wild Dogs
- Striped Hyena
- Indian Bison (Gaur)
- Sambar Deer
- Nilgai
- Muntjac (Barking Deer)
- Wild Boar
Birds:
- Peafowl (Indian Peafowl)
- Parakeets
- Woodpeckers
- Raptors
Reptiles:
- Cobras
- Pythons
- Lizards
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. In which state is Sita Nadi Wildlife Sanctuary?/In which state is Sitanadi National Park?
A. The Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Chhattisgarh, India. It is situated in the northern part of the state, within the Dhamtari district.
Q. Which tree is found in Sita Nadi?/Which tree is found in plurality in Sita Nadi Chhattisgarh?
A. One of the prominent tree species found in the Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is the Sal tree (Shorea robusta). Sal is a dominant tree in the region and forms dense forests, contributing significantly to the sanctuary's ecosystem. It is highly valued for its timber and is an essential component of the forests in the area.
Apart from Sal, you may also find other tree species like Teak (Tectona grandis), Bamboo, Mahua (Madhuca longifolia), Semal (Bombax ceiba), Haldu (Adina cordifolia), and various species from the Terminalia genus, among others. The sanctuary's diverse flora supports a wide range of wildlife and makes it an essential habitat for various animal species.
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