Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary is located in he state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is a significant protected area with rich biodiversity and historical importance.
The Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary was originally designated as the catchment area for supplying water to Shimla, the summer capital of the British. After India gained independence in 1947, the area came under state control and was officially declared a protected forest in 1952. In 1990, it was further designated as a wildlife sanctuary.
The sanctuary boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna typical of the Western Himalayan region. The forested area is dominated by temperate coniferous forests. Cedar is the predominant tree species, and it is mixed with other species. The shrub and ground layers are well developed, with shrubs covering 50% of the area. The ground vegetation includes grasses, ferns, and forbs.
The sanctuary's significance lies in its role as a protected area for conserving biodiversity and maintaining the watershed for water supply to Shimla. It serves as a habitat for a range of flora and fauna, including threatened and endemic species.
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Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary Location
The Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the vicinity of Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, India.
Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Shimla is the Shimla Airport (also known as Jubbarhatti Airport). It is located about 23 kilometers (approximately 14 miles) away from the city center. This airport is a small one and mainly serves domestic flights.
Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
Shimla is connected to the Indian Railways network through the Kalka-Shimla Railway. The nearest major railway station is Kalka Railway Station, which is situated in Kalka, Haryana.
Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary History
The Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary has a rich and unique history that dates back to the colonial era and reflects the area's importance for water supply, conservation, and wildlife protection. Here is a brief overview of its history:
Ownership and Leasing: The actual owner of the Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary area was the Rana of Koti. The land was initially under the stewardship of the Rana of Koti. In the year 1878, recognizing the significance of the region for water supply to Shimla, the land was leased to the Shimla Municipal Corporation, establishing the foundation for its future conservation.
Protected Forest Designation: In 1952, a significant step was taken toward conservation when the area was officially declared a protected forest. This designation marked a pivotal moment in recognizing the ecological importance of the catchment area and laid the groundwork for its future protection and management.
Evolution into a Wildlife Sanctuary: Building upon its status as a protected forest, the Shimla Water Catchment area was further designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1990. This evolution highlighted the growing understanding of the area's role in supporting diverse flora and fauna, and emphasized the need for focused efforts to ensure the preservation of its unique ecosystem.
Management Transition (2006-2009): Till 2006, the Shimla Municipal Corporation had been responsible for the sanctuary's care and management. However, in a significant shift, the responsibility for the sanctuary's oversight was transferred to the Shimla Wildlife Division in 2009. This change aimed to enhance wildlife conservation efforts and streamline the administration of the sanctuary.
Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 10.25 square kilometers. Despite its smaller size, the sanctuary holds significant ecological importance due to its role in safeguarding water supply, conserving biodiversity, and providing habitat for various flora and fauna.
The sanctuary's diverse landscapes, including temperate coniferous forests, shrub layers, and grassy vegetation, contribute to its value as a protected area in the region.
Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
The Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora, typical of the Western Himalayan region. The sanctuary's varied landscapes, including temperate coniferous forests, oak and pine forests, and associated understory vegetation, contribute to its rich botanical diversity.
Here are some of the key flora species found within the sanctuary:
Cedar (Cedrus deodara): Cedar trees are predominant in the sanctuary's forests. Cedars are large coniferous trees with aromatic wood and are an important component of the Himalayan forests.
Ban Oak (Quercus incana): Ban Oak, also known as Himalayan Blue Oak, is a type of oak tree found in the region. It contributes to the diversity of the forest canopy.
Chir Pine (Pinus roxburghii): Chir Pine is a pine species that grows at lower altitudes within the sanctuary. These trees are known for their long needles and large cones.
Fir (Abies pindrow): Fir trees are present at higher altitudes and are an important part of the sanctuary's ecosystem.
Blue Pine (Pinus wallichiana): Blue Pine, also known as Bhutan Pine or Himalayan White Pine, is another pine species found in the sanctuary.
Moru Oak (Quercus dilatata): Moru Oak, a type of oak tree, contributes to the diversity of the sanctuary's flora.
Spruce (Picea smithiana): Spruce trees are found at higher altitudes and are well-suited to the colder conditions of the Himalayan region.
Shrubs: The sanctuary's shrub layer is well developed, with various shrub species contributing to the understory vegetation.
Ground Vegetation: The ground vegetation includes a variety of grasses, ferns, and forbs that make up the sanctuary's diverse understory.
Wildflowers: The sanctuary likely hosts a variety of wildflowers and flowering plants, adding to the visual appeal and ecological value of the area.
Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
The Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse array of fauna, ranging from mammals and birds to smaller creatures that collectively contribute to the sanctuary's ecological balance.
Here are some of the key fauna species that can be found within the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Leopard
- Barking Deer or Indian Muntjak
- Goral
- Rhesus Macaque
- Common Langur
- Yellowthroated Marten
- Porcupine
- Flying Squirrel
- Himalayan Musk Deer
Birds:
- Koklass Pheasant
- Kaleej Pheasant
- Cheer Pheasant
Reptiles:
- Snakes
- Lizards
Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Where is Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary located?
A. The Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the city of Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, India.
Q. What is the catchment area of Simla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. The Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 10.25 square kilometers. This catchment area is situated near Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, India. The sanctuary's relatively compact size is notable for its significance in supplying water to Shimla, conserving biodiversity, and protecting various flora and fauna.
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