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.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
Hills
Flora
Fauna
UPSC Questions

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.

Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary is likely home to a diverse range of flora, owing to its location in the Shivalik hills of Haryana, India. Here are some types of flora that can be found in the sanctuary:

1. Deciduous Forests:

The sanctuary feature deciduous forests with trees that shed their leaves seasonally. Trees such as sal, teak, neem, bamboo, and semal could be part of the forested landscape.

2. Grasslands:

Open grasslands interspersed with the forests, providing important feeding grounds for herbivores. Various grass species like elephant grass present.

3. Shrubs and Understory Plants:

Shrubs and understory plants play a vital role in providing cover and food for animals. Species like ber, amla, and wild roses might thrive in the sanctuary.

6. Climbers and Vines:

Climbing plants like passionflowers, morning glories, and various vines add to the diversity of the sanctuary's flora.

Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

The Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna. Here are some examples of the types of fauna that inhabit the sanctuary:

Mammals:

Indian Leopard
Asiatic Elephant
Chital (Spotted Deer)
Sambar Deer
Wild Boar
Rhesus Macaque
Gray Langur
Striped Hyena
Indian Jackal
Jungle Cat
Indian Gray Mongoose
Indian Fox

Birds:

Peafowl (Indian Peafowl)
Red Junglefowl
Indian Eagle-Owl
Indian Roller
Crested Serpent Eagle
White-throated Kingfisher
Himalayan Bulbul
Black Francolin

Reptiles:

Indian Rock Python
Common Monitor Lizard
Indian Cobra
Checkered Keelback