Wan Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
The Wan Wildlife Sanctuary is a notable conservation area located in the state of Maharashtra, India. This sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity and unique features.
The sanctuary covers an area of 211 square kilometers and is an extension of the Melghat Tiger Reserve. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, various species of wild cats, and a variety of plant species.
The sanctuary contributes to the conservation of these species and their habitats. It plays a role in safeguarding the region's biodiversity and promoting ecological balance.
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Wan Wildlife Sanctuary Location
The Wan Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Amravati district of Maharashtra, India. It is a part of Vidharbha region. It is situated in the southeastern part of the Melghat Tiger Reserve and serves as an extension of the Melghat Tiger Reserve.
The sanctuary is situated in the Chikaldhara region, which is believed to be named after Keechakadhara, a valley in the area associated with a local myth from the Mahabharata.
The nearest city to the sanctuary is Shegaon, located about 45 kilometers away.
Wan Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Wan Wildlife Sanctuary is Nagpur Airport, which is approximately 155 kilometers away.
Wan Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Wan Wildlife Sanctuary is Amravati Railway Station.
Wan Wildlife Sanctuary History
Mythological Significance: The sanctuary's location is intricately linked to a captivating local myth. As per local myth, this sanctuary is located exactly at a place which is believed to be the battle ground for Bheema and Keechaka of Mahabharata. Story further goes as Bheema fought and defeated Keechaka on the hill top and threw him deep into this valley. This valley came to be known as the Keechakadhara. The Chikaldhara region which is also an extension of this valley is believed to be named after Keechakadhara.
Establishment: On the notable date of July 29, 1997, the sanctuary received its official designation. This moment marked its legal establishment and solidified its role as a protected sanctuary for wildlife conservation.
Extension of Melghat Tiger Reserve: Stretching across the southeastern expanse of the Melghat Tiger Reserve, the Wan Wildlife Sanctuary seamlessly extends the reach of this larger conservation area. Serving as an organic continuation, the sanctuary contributes to the broader objectives of the reserve, enhancing the safeguarding of the region's diverse flora and fauna.
Wan Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The Wan Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses a sprawling area of 211 square kilometers. Within this expanse, a variety of ecosystems thrive, providing vital habitats for diverse wildlife species and contributing to the broader conservation efforts of the region.
This significant land area underscores the sanctuary's commitment to preserving the natural heritage of the Chikaldhara region and its rich biodiversity.
Wan Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
The Wan Wildlife Sanctuary boasts a rich tapestry of plant life, contributing to its vibrant ecosystem. The sanctuary's lush and varied flora includes:
- Lagerstroemia parviflora
- Lannea coromandelica
- Emblica officinalis
- Terminalia tomentosa
- Anogeissus latifolia
- Ougenia oojeinensis
- Boswelia serrata
- Wrightia tinctoria
- Cassia fistula
- Miliusa tomentosa
- Bauhinia racemosa
- Butea monosperma
Wan Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Wan Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
The Wan Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for a wide array of animal species, each contributing to the sanctuary's vibrant ecosystem. Some of the notable fauna found within the sanctuary include:
Mammals:
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Wild Dog
- Sloth Bear
- Leopard Cat
- Rusty Spotted Cat
- Desert Cat
Birds:
- Forest Owlet
- Green Avadavat
Reptiles:
- Indian Rock Python
- Indian Cobra
- Common Monitor Lizard
- Indian Chameleon
- Russell's Viper
Wan Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. What is Wan Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. The Wan Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its rich biodiversity, including a variety of plant and animal species. It holds significance for the following reasons:
(i) Mythological Importance: The sanctuary's location is believed to be the battlefield where Bheema and Keechaka from the Mahabharata fought. This mythological connection adds a unique cultural and historical significance to the sanctuary.
(ii) Extension of Melghat Tiger Reserve: The sanctuary acts as an extension of the Melghat Tiger Reserve, contributing to the conservation of the region's tiger population and other wildlife.
(iii) Diverse Flora: The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of plant species, contributing to its lush and vibrant ecosystem.
(iv) Diverse Fauna: The sanctuary boasts a diverse range of animal species, including tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, and various types of wild cats, making it a significant habitat for wildlife.
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