Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Indian state of Odisha.The sanctuary is named after the nearby Sunabeda plateau, which is characterized by its rocky terrain and dry deciduous forests.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by a grass-covered plateau. It is connected to the Sitanadi and Udanti Sanctuaries in the neighboring state of Chhattisgarh, emphasizing the importance of cross-border conservation efforts.
The sanctuary boasts several attractions for visitors, including picturesque waterfalls, archaeological sites at Muraguda, the historic Jumlagarh Fort, Giribaman, and caves. These sites add to the appeal of the sanctuary as a tourist destination.
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Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Nuapada district of the Indian state of Odisha. It is situated in the western part of Odisha, near the border with the state of Chhattisgarh.
The sanctuary is connected to the Sitanadi and Udanti Sanctuaries in Chhattisgarh, forming a contiguous wildlife conservation area across state boundaries.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is the Swami Vivekananda Airport, located in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. Raipur Airport is approximately 220 kilometers (about 137 miles) from Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary. Travelers can reach the sanctuary by road from Raipur.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest major railway station to Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is the Nuapada Railway Station, located in Nuapada district, Odisha. This railway station is the closest option for those traveling by train. However, please note that the connectivity and train services to Nuapada Railway Station may be limited, and travelers may need to plan their journey accordingly.
For more convenient and extensive railway connectivity, you can also consider arriving at the Raipur Railway Station in Chhattisgarh, which is a major railway junction in the region. From Raipur, you can proceed to Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary by road, which is the most common mode of transportation to reach the sanctuary.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary History
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary has a relatively short history as a protected area. Here's an overview of its history:
Establishment: Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary was established in the year 1988. It was designated as a wildlife sanctuary with the aim of conserving the diverse flora and fauna of the region. This sanctuary was created to protect the unique ecosystems and wildlife present in the area.
Tiger Reserve Proposal: Over the years, there have been efforts to upgrade Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary to the status of a tiger reserve. This proposal has received "in-principle approval" from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). Preparations for its notification as a tiger reserve are underway, which would further enhance its status as a crucial area for tiger conservation in Odisha.
Socio-Economic Importance: The sanctuary has contributed to the socio-economic development of the surrounding areas by serving as a catchment area for rivers like Jonk, Sunder, and Indra, which are essential for irrigation and agriculture in the region.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary Area
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 600 square kilometers (230 square miles). This sanctuary is spread across this significant expanse of land, encompassing various ecosystems, landscapes, and habitats that support a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary River
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is associated with several rivers and water bodies that play a significant role in the ecosystem and provide essential resources for both wildlife and local communities. Here are some of the rivers and water bodies associated with the sanctuary:
(1) Jonk River:
The sanctuary forms the catchment area of the Jonk River, and a dam has been constructed on this river to facilitate irrigation. This indicates the importance of the sanctuary in contributing to the water resources and agricultural activities in the region.
(2) Sunder River:
The Sunder River is another river in the vicinity of Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary. Like the Jonk River, it have its origins or catchment area within or around the sanctuary.
(3) Indra Nullah:
The Indra Nullah is located to the south of Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, adding to the network of water bodies in the area.
(4) Son River:
The Son River flows to the west of the sanctuary, further emphasizing the sanctuary's association with multiple rivers and their catchment areas.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
What is the flora of Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary?
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse flora, which includes a variety of plant species adapted to the dry deciduous tropical forest environment of the region. Here are some of the notable plant species and types of flora found in Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Amla
- Arjun
- Asan
- Atundi
- Bahada
- Bana Khajuri
- Bandhan
- Bheru
- Bija
- Chara
- Dharua
- Gaj
- Gange siuli
- Gindhi
- Haldu
- Harida
- Jamun
- Karla
- Kendu
- Khair
- Kumbhi
- Kurei
- Kusum
- Latapalas
- Moi
- Mundi
- Patchurimia
- Satabari
- Siali
- Sidha
- Simul
- Sissoo
- Siris
- Sunari
- Teak
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for which animal?
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including various mammals, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife species. Here is a list of some of the notable fauna found in Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Striped Hyena
- Barking Deer
- Spotted Deer
- Sambar Deer
- Swamp Deer
- Gaur
- Wild Buffalo
- Sloth Bear
- Wild Boar
- Common Langur
- Rhesus Monkey
Birds:
- Sanderling
- Hill Myna
- Peafowl
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Indian Pitta
- Indian Paradise Flycatchers
- Jungle Owlet
- Tickell's Flycatcher
- Sulphur-bellied Warbler
- Common Babblers
Reptiles:
- Python
- Cobra
- Monitor Lizard
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. In which state is Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary?/Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary which district?
A. Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Odisha, India. It is situated in the Nuapada district of Odisha, in the western part of the state.
Q. When was Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary established?
A. Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary was established in the year 1988. This sanctuary, located in the Nuapada district of Odisha, India, was designated as a protected area with the goal of conserving its diverse flora and fauna. Since its establishment, it has played a crucial role in the conservation of wildlife and natural ecosystems in the region.
Q. What is Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons:
(i) Rich Biodiversity: The sanctuary is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including various species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and plant life. It provides a valuable habitat for a wide range of wildlife.
(ii) Tiger Conservation: Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its efforts in tiger conservation. It has received "in-principle approval" from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to be upgraded to a tiger reserve, highlighting its significance in the protection of these majestic big cats.
(iii) Unique Landscapes: The sanctuary features a varied landscape that includes plateaus, valleys, gorges, and scenic waterfalls. Visitors are drawn to its picturesque natural beauty and the opportunity to explore these landscapes.
(iv) Archaeological Sites: Sunabeda is home to archaeological sites, including places like Muraguda, Jumlagarh Fort, and Giribaman. These sites offer historical and cultural significance.
(v) Birdwatching: The sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, with around 200 species of birds reported in the area. Bird observation points have been established at Jalki and Raital Bandh in Maraguda, providing opportunities for bird enthusiasts to observe the avifauna in the area.
(vi) Contribution to Local Communities: Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary serves as the catchment area for several rivers, supporting the livelihoods of local communities through agriculture and irrigation. It plays a vital role in the socio-economic development of the surrounding areas.
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