Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Indian state of West Bengal. Chapramari is a relatively small wildlife sanctuary compared to some of the larger ones in India, but it is known for its rich biodiversity and lush forested landscapes.
Chapramari is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary is primarily covered by moist deciduous forests, which are home to a variety of wildlife species. It is particularly famous for its population of Indian elephants.
Chapramari, like many other wildlife sanctuaries in India, plays a crucial role in the conservation of endangered species and the preservation of biodiversity. It is part of the larger effort to protect and conserve the forests and wildlife of the Eastern Himalayas.
The best time to visit Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is cool and comfortable. The monsoon season, from June to September, should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
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Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the northern part of West Bengal, India. It is situated near the town of Malbazar in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal. It is in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas.
The sanctuary is approximately 30 kilometers away from Chalsa and Lataguri, making it easily accessible to visitors exploring the wildlife-rich region of northern West Bengal.
The Murti River divides Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary from the Gorumara National Park, with the sanctuary on the northeast side of the river and the national park on the southwest side.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is Bagdogra Airport. Bagdogra Airport is an important gateway for travelers visiting the region and is located approximately 75 kilometers from Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary. It serves as the primary airport for the area.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is Jalpaiguri Railway Station. Jalpaiguri Railway Station is approximately 40-45 kilometers away from the sanctuary. It is one of the major railway stations in the region and provides rail connectivity to various parts of India. Visitors can use this railway station as a point of access to reach Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary History
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary has a history that dates back to the late 19th century. Here's an overview of its history:
Early Proposals for Tourism: In 1896, D.H.E. Sander, an imperial forest-service administrator, sent a proposal to the British-dominated Government of India suggesting that Chapramari could be developed into a tourism center. This early proposal recognized the potential of the area for wildlife and nature-based tourism.
Declaration as a National Reserve Forest: Prior to its formal establishment as a wildlife sanctuary, Chapramari was declared a national reserve forest in 1895 under the Indian Forest Act. This designation acknowledged the ecological and environmental significance of the region.
Name Change to Chapramari Wildlife Reserve: In 1939, the area came to be known as Chapramari Wildlife Reserve, signifying its focus on the conservation and protection of wildlife and their habitats.
Wildlife Sanctuary Status: The Government of India granted Chapramari the status of a wildlife sanctuary in 1976. This upgrade in status reinforced its importance in the national conservation efforts.
Etymology of the Name: The name "Chapramari" is derived from two words: "Chapra," which refers to a variety of small fishes found in northern Bengal, and "Mari," which means "abundance." The name reflects the natural richness and abundance of the area's flora and fauna.
Ecological Significance: Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is ecologically important as it receives waters from several rivers, including the Teesta, Neora, Jaldhaka, and Murti. These rivers contribute to the rich biodiversity and lush vegetation found in the sanctuary.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 9.60 square kilometers (3.7 square miles). Despite its modest size, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to various wildlife species, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary River
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is traversed by several rivers and water bodies, which contribute to its rich biodiversity and provide essential resources for the wildlife and vegetation in the area. One of the notable rivers in the sanctuary is the Murti River.
Murti River:
The Murti River is a prominent river that flows through Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary. It serves as a lifeline for the sanctuary, providing water for the various flora and fauna that inhabit the region. The river also divides Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary from the Gorumara National Park, which is located on the southwest side of the river.
The presence of the Murti River adds to the scenic beauty of the sanctuary and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing along its banks. Many animals, including elephants and Gaur, can often be seen near the riverbed, especially during the morning and evening hours when they come to drink water.
The riverine habitats in Chapramari, including the Murti River, are critical for the survival and well-being of the diverse wildlife. They provide water, food, and shelter for the various species, making Chapramari an important conservation area in the region.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary boasts a diverse range of flora, which contributes to its rich and vibrant ecosystem. Here are some of the notable types of flora found in Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary:
(1) Sal Trees (Shorea robusta):
Sal trees are one of the dominant tree species in Chapramari. They are a crucial component of the moist deciduous forest ecosystem and provide habitat and sustenance for various wildlife.
(2) Teak Trees (Tectona grandis):
Teak is another valuable tree species found in the sanctuary. Teak wood is highly sought after for its quality, and the trees offer shelter to wildlife.
(3) Shishu (Dalbergia sissoo):
Shishu, also known as Indian rosewood, is a deciduous tree commonly found along riverbanks and in moist areas. It provides valuable timber and is important for soil conservation.
(4) Orchids:
Chapramari is known for its rich diversity of orchid species. Orchids are epiphytic plants that often grow on trees and add to the sanctuary's floral diversity.
- Acampe Spp.
- Bulbophyllum Spp.
- Chiloschista Spp.
- Cymbidium Spp.
- Dendrobium Spp.
- Eria Spp.
- Gastrochilus Spp.
- Luisia Spp.
- Oberonia Spp.
(5) Bamboos:
Various species of bamboo are found in the sanctuary. Bamboo groves provide food and shelter for animals like elephants and deer.
(6) Acacia Trees:
Acacia species are scattered throughout the sanctuary and contribute to its overall biodiversity.
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its diverse and vibrant fauna. The sanctuary provides habitat to a variety of wildlife species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and more. Here are some of the notable fauna species found in Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Leopard
- One-horned Indian Rhinoceros
- Asian Elephant
- Gaur
- Spotted Deer (Chital)
- Sambar Deer
- Wild Boar
Birds:
- Mynas
- Green Magpie
- Adjutant stork
- Indian Treepie
- Thrust
- Indian Pied Hornbill
- Oriental Pied Hornbill
- Scarlet Minivet
- Parakeets
- Kingfishers
Reptiles:
- Pythons
- King Cobra
- Rat Snake
- Russell’s Viper
- Common Krait
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary situated in which district?
A. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Jalpaiguri district of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is located in the northern part of West Bengal, near the town of Malbazar. This sanctuary, along with neighboring protected areas like Gorumara National Park, contributes to the rich biodiversity and conservation efforts in the region.
Q. What is the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons:
(i) Rich Biodiversity: It is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including a significant population of Indian elephants, which are often the main attraction for visitors.
(ii) Elephant Sighting: The sanctuary is particularly famous for its Indian elephant population, and it provides excellent opportunities for visitors to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
(iii) Birdwatching: Chapramari is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts, with numerous bird species, including hornbills, minivets, parakeets, and kingfishers, making it a popular destination for bird lovers.
(iv) Tourism and Safaris: Chapramari offers wildlife safaris, including jeep safaris and elephant safaris, allowing tourists to explore the sanctuary and witness its wildlife up close.
(v) Conservation Efforts: The sanctuary plays a crucial role in the conservation of endangered and vulnerable species, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity in the Eastern Himalayan region.
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