Achanakmar Tiger Reserve UPSC
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary and tiger reserve located in Chhattisgarh, India. It is situated in the eastern part of the state and covers an area of approximately 553.286 sq. Km.
Established in 2009, Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to various species of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is nestled amidst the Maikal mountain range and is characterized by undulating terrains, dense forests, and picturesque landscapes.
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is a part of the larger Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, which includes the adjoining Amarkantak plateau.
|
Table of Contents
|
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve Location
The Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is located in Mungeli district of Chhattisgarh, India. It is situated in the eastern part of the state, near the border with Madhya Pradesh. It is nestled amidst the Maikal mountain range.
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is the Swami Vivekananda Airport (formerly known as Raipur Airport). It is located in Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh, and is approximately 211 kilometers (131 miles) away from the tiger reserve.
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is Bilaspur Junction Railway Station. The railway station is approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from the tiger reserve.
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve History
The history of Achanakmar Tiger Reserve dates back to the early 20th century when it was initially established as a forest reserve. The area was recognized for its ecological importance and the need for conserving its rich biodiversity. Over time, it underwent various stages of development and eventually became a tiger reserve.
Wildlife Sanctuary: In 1975, Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary was established, under the provisions of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
Biosphere Reserve: In 2005, Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve was created by Government of India. This biosphere reserve includes Achanakmar Tiger Reserve and the adjacent Amarkantak plateau. The establishment of Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve further enhanced the conservation efforts in the area.
Tiger Reserve Status: In 2009, Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary declared as a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger.
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve: Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve was recognized by UNESCO in 2012 for its biological diversity and cultural significance.
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve Area
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve spans an area of approximately 553.286 square kilometers (213.534 square miles). The reserve area encompasses diverse ecosystems and serves as a crucial habitat for various wildlife species, including the Bengal tigers.
Corridor
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve serves as an important corridor connecting the Kanha Tiger Reserve and the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. This corridor plays a crucial role in facilitating the movement and dispersal of wildlife, including tigers, between these reserves.
Wildlife corridors are vital for maintaining genetic diversity and promoting the long-term survival of animal populations. They provide a means for animals to move between fragmented habitats, enabling them to find mates, establish new territories, and access resources. In the case of Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, the corridor allows tigers to travel between Kanha and Bandhavgarh, which are renowned tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh, enhancing gene flow and overall population health.
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve Hills
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is located amidst the Maikal mountain range. The reserve is characterized by undulating terrains and is known for its hilly landscapes. The hills in and around Achanakmar Tiger Reserve add to the scenic beauty of the region and provide diverse habitats for a variety of wildlife species.
The hills in Achanakmar Tiger Reserve not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal but also play a significant role in providing varied microhabitats for wildlife. The slopes and valleys offer refuge and breeding grounds for several species, while the dense forests on the hillsides provide shelter and foraging opportunities for animals like tigers, leopards, and various bird species.
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve River
Maniyari River:
The Maniyari River is a significant river that passes through the Achanakmar Tiger Reserve. It is one of the important water bodies within the reserve and contributes to the overall ecosystem dynamics. The river originates in the nearby regions and meanders through the reserve, providing water to the surrounding vegetation and wildlife.
The presence of the Maniyari River enhances the biodiversity of the reserve, attracting various species of plants, animals, and birds that rely on its water for sustenance. The river's course through the dense forests and hilly terrain adds to the picturesque landscapes and offers opportunities for visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
The Maniyari River, along with other rivers and water bodies in Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, plays a crucial role in supporting the wildlife population and maintaining the ecological balance. It provides drinking water sources, bathing areas, and breeding grounds for various species, contributing to the overall health and survival of the ecosystem.
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve Flora
The Achanakmar Tiger Reserve boasts a diverse and lush flora, thanks to its varied habitats, including forests, hills, valleys, and rivers. The reserve is known for its rich vegetation, consisting of both deciduous and evergreen forests.
Here are some of the prominent flora species found in the Achanakmar Tiger Reserve:
Sal (Shorea robusta): Sal is one of the dominant tree species in the region, forming extensive sal forests. It is highly valued for its timber and provides a crucial habitat for various wildlife species.
Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak is another important tree species found in the reserve. It is known for its sturdy timber and is widely distributed in the region.
Bamboo: Several species of bamboo, including Dendrocalamus strictus and Bambusa arundinacea, can be found in the Achanakmar Tiger Reserve. Bamboo forests provide a vital source of food and shelter for wildlife.
Mahua (Madhuca longifolia): Mahua is a common tree species in the region and has cultural significance for local communities. Its flowers are used to produce edible oil and traditional alcoholic beverages.
Terminalia species: Terminalia trees, such as Terminalia arjuna and Terminalia chebula, are found in the reserve. These trees have medicinal properties and are used in traditional herbal remedies.
Other tree species: Other notable tree species found in the reserve include Semal (Bombax ceiba), Harra (Terminalia chebula), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), and Amaltas (Cassia fistula).
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve Fauna (Achanakmar Tiger Reserve Animals)
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is home to a rich variety of fauna, including several mammal, bird, reptile, and amphibian species. The diverse habitats within the reserve support a thriving wildlife population.
Here are some notable fauna species found in the Achanakmar Tiger Reserve:
Mammals:
- Bengal Tiger
- Indian Leopard
- Gaur
- Striped Hyena
- Indian Jackal
- Sloth Bear
- Ussuri Dhole
- Nilgai
- Chital
- Sambar
- Four-horned Antelope
- Chinkara
- Blackbuck
- Indian Muntjac
- Wild Boar
Birds:
- Indian Peafowl
- Indian Pitta
- Indian Grey Hornbill
- Malabar Pied Hornbill
- Asian Paradise Flycatcher
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
- Common Kingfisher
- Red Junglefowl
- Alexandrine Parakeet
Reptiles:
- Indian Rock Python
- Common Krait
- Indian Cobra
- Checkered Keelback
- Monitor Lizard
- Indian Chameleon
- Fan-throated Lizard
- Indian Skink
Top Things to do in Achanakmar Tiger Reserve
When visiting Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, there are several activities and experiences that you can enjoy to make the most of your time in this beautiful natural reserve.
Here are some top things to do in Achanakmar Tiger Reserve:
- Wildlife Safari
- Birdwatching
- Nature Walks
- Photography
- Visit Tribal Villages
- Nature Interpretation Center
- Relaxation and Picnics
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve UPSC Questions
Q. Where is Achanakmar Tiger Reserve?
A. Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is located in Mungeli district of Chhattisgarh, India.
Q. Which river flows through Achanakmar Tiger Reserve?
A. Maniyari river flows through Achanakmar Tiger Reserve.
Q. How many tigers are there in Achanakmar Tiger Reserve?
A. Approx there are 35 tigers in Achanakmar Tiger Reserve.
Q. What is Achanakmar Tiger Reserve famous for?
A. Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is famous for several reasons:
- Tiger Conservation
- Biodiversity
- Scenic Beauty
- Tribal Heritage
- Ecotourism
- Connectivity with Other Reserves
No comments:
Post a Comment