Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve UPSC
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary and tiger reserve located in the state of Chhattisgarh, India. It was created by merging the two separate Sanctuaries of Udanti and Sitanadi in the year 2008-09.
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity and serves as an important habitat for various species of flora and fauna. The reserve is characterized by dense forests, hilly terrains, and several rivers and streams, including the Udanti and Sitanadi rivers, from which it derives its name.
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Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve Location
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is located in the Gariaband district of Chhattisgarh state, India. It is approximately 160 kilometers away from the capital city of Raipur.
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is Swami Vivekananda Airport, also known as Raipur Airport. It is located in Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh. The distance between Raipur Airport and Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is approximately 163 kilometers.
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is Raipur Junction Railway Station. It is well-connected to various cities in India and serves as a gateway to the region. From Raipur Junction, you can reach Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve by road, which is approximately 177 kilometers away.
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve History
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve has an interesting history that spans several decades. Here's a brief overview:
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary: The reserve was initially established as the Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary in 1974, covering an area of 556 square kilometers. It was primarily created to protect the biodiversity and ecosystems of the region.
Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary: In 1983, the Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary was established, covering an area of 247 square kilometers.
Expansion and Renamed: In 1998, Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary and Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary merged and renamed Udanti Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary, covering a total area of 1,425 square kilometers.
Tiger Reserve Declaration: Recognizing the significance of the region for tiger conservation, Udanti Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary was declared as a tiger reserve in 2008-09. This step aimed to provide enhanced protection and conservation measures specifically for the tiger population in the area.
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Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve Area
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve has a total area of 1,842.54 square kilometers, which is divided as follows:
(1) Core/Critical Tiger Habitat: 851.09 square kilometers
- Core I Udanti: 275.77 square kilometers
- Core II Sitanadi: 575.32 square kilometers
(2) Buffer Area: 991.45 square kilometers
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve River
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is named after two prominent rivers that flow through the reserve: Udanti River and Sitanadi River. These rivers not only contribute to the ecological diversity of the reserve but also provide vital water sources for the wildlife and vegetation within the area.
(1) Udanti River:
The Udanti River is one of the major rivers that flow through the tiger reserve. It originates in the Maikal Range and traverses a significant portion of the reserve. The river is known for its scenic beauty and plays a crucial role in maintaining the water supply for the wildlife and vegetation in the area.
(2) Sitanadi River:
The Sitanadi River is another important river that flows through Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve. It also originates in the Maikal Range and passes through the reserve, contributing to the diverse ecosystems within the area.
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve Flora
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is known for its diverse flora, which includes a variety of plant species. The reserve's vegetation comprises different types of forests, ranging from moist deciduous forests to dry deciduous forests.
Here are some of the notable flora found in Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve:
Sal (Shorea robusta): Sal is one of the dominant tree species in the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve. It thrives in the moist deciduous forests and provides important habitat and food sources for various animal species.
Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak is another prominent tree species found in the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve. It is highly valued for its timber and is known for its strong and durable wood.
Mahua (Madhuca longifolia): Mahua trees are scattered throughout the reserve and bear edible fruits. The flowers of the Mahua tree are also used to make traditional alcoholic beverages.
Bamboo: Several species of bamboo can be found in Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve. Bamboo forests provide a habitat for many animals and are essential for soil conservation.
Terminalia species: Trees belonging to the Terminalia genus, such as Terminalia arjuna and Terminalia chebula, are found in the reserve. They have cultural and medicinal significance.
Other tree species: The reserve is home to a variety of other tree species, including Semal (Bombax ceiba), Kusum (Schleichera oleosa), Harra (Terminalia chebula), Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon), and many more.
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve Fauna (Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve Animals)
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is renowned for its diverse and rich fauna. The reserve provides a habitat for a wide range of animal species, including several threatened and endangered species.
Here are some notable fauna found in Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve:
Mammals:
- Tigers
- Asiatic Wild Buffalos
- Panthers
- Wild Dogs
- Striped Hyena
- Jungle Cat
- Chital
- Four-Horned Antelopes
- Barking Deer
- Black Buck
- Sambar
- Blue Bull (Nilgai)
- Gaur
- Sloth Bear
Note- Asiatic Wild Buffalo is the key endangered species found in the Core Area of Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve.
Birds:
- Indian Pitta
- Indian Roller
- Malabar Pied Hornbill
- White-bellied Drongo
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Grey-headed Fish Eagle
- Changeable Hawk-Eagle
- Oriental Honey Buzzard
- Indian Peafowl
- Red Junglefowl
Reptiles:
- Indian Rock Python
- Mugger Crocodile
- Indian Cobra
- Common Monitor Lizard
- Indian Chameleon
- Indian Sand Boa
- Indian Wolf Snake
- Common Skink
- Indian Garden Lizard
- Common Krait
Top Things to do in Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve
When visiting Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve, there are several activities and experiences that you can enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in the tiger reserve:
- Wildlife Safari
- Birdwatching
- Nature Trails
- Photography
- Visit Tribal Villages
- Nature Interpretation Centers
- Nature Camping
- Eco-Tourism Initiatives
Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve UPSC Questions
Q. In which state is Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve located?
A. Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is located in the Gariaband district of Chhattisgarh, India.
Q. Which river flows through udanti sitanadi tiger reserve?/On which river is Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve?
A. Udanti and Sitanadi River flows through Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve.
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