Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Chhattisgarh, India. It is one of the prominent wildlife reserves in the region and plays a crucial role in conserving the diverse flora and fauna of the area. 

Barnawapara Wildlife sanctuary, is named after Bar and Nawapara forest villages, which are in the heart of the sanctuary.

Recently (2023), Chhattisgarh forest department has carried out a successful translocation of four sub-adult wild buffaloes from Assam to Chattisgarh’s Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary after Chhattisgarh High Court cleared the hurdles as part of the state's ongoing efforts to protect and conserve the state animal.

Table of Contents Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Location Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary History Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Area Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary River Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Lake Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Flora Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna Mammals Birds Reptile Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Raipur district of Chhattisgarh, India. It lies in the northern part of the state, approximately 85 kilometers away from the capital city, Raipur.

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary is Swami Vivekananda Airport, also known as Raipur Airport. It is located in Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh, at a distance of approximately 85 kilometers from the sanctuary. From Raipur Airport, you can hire a taxi or use other means of transportation to reach Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary.

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest major railway station to Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary is Raipur Junction Railway Station. It is a well-connected railway station in Chhattisgarh and is situated in Raipur, at a similar distance of about 85 kilometers from the sanctuary. From Raipur Junction, you can avail taxis, buses, or other local transport options to reach Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary.

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary History

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary has a history that dates back to its establishment as a protected area to conserve the region's biodiversity and wildlife. Here's an overview of its history:

Establishment: Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1976. It was created with the primary objective of conserving the unique and diverse flora and fauna found in the region.

Name Origin: The Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary derives its name from the twin forest villages of Bar and Nawapara, which are located within the sanctuary's boundaries.

Translocation of Wild Buffaloes: On April 8, 2022, the Chhattisgarh Forest Department successfully carried out the translocation of four sub-adult wild buffaloes from Assam to Chhattisgarh's Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary. This significant event took place after the Chhattisgarh High Court cleared the hurdles, marking a milestone in the state's ongoing efforts to protect and conserve the state animal.

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 244.66 square kilometers (94 square miles). The topography of the sanctuary is plain and undulating terrain. The elevation is varies up to 640 msl.

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary River

The rivers Balmedhi, Jonk and Mahanadi are the lifeline river which flow through the Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary.

(1) Balmedhi River:

The Balmedhi River forms the western boundary of Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary. It serves as an essential water source for the sanctuary and contributes to the local ecology and sustenance of wildlife.

(2) Jonk River:

The Jonk River runs along the northeastern boundary of the sanctuary. Like the Balmedhi River, it plays a crucial role in providing water and supporting the biodiversity within the sanctuary.

(3) Mahanadi River:

The Mahanadi River is a significant river system in the region and is a lifeline river for central India. 

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Lake

The Balar Reservoir is a significant water body located within Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary. It serves as a reservoir for storing water and provides shelter to various wetland birds and fish species. Wetland habitats are essential for a diverse range of bird species, and they attract migratory birds during different seasons.

The presence of the Balar Reservoir within the sanctuary adds to the ecological diversity of the area and contributes to the overall richness of wildlife and birdlife found in Barnawapara. It offers a valuable habitat for various aquatic and avian species, making it an essential conservation area within the sanctuary.

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora, which contributes to the rich biodiversity of the region. The sanctuary's vegetation mainly falls under the category of dry deciduous forests and includes various types of trees, shrubs, and grasses. 

Some of the prominent flora found in Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary are as follows:

Sal (Shorea robusta): Sal is one of the dominant tree species in the sanctuary. These large deciduous trees provide a crucial habitat for many wildlife species and are an essential source of timber.

Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak trees are another significant tree species found in Barnawapara. They are valued for their high-quality timber and are widely distributed in the region.

Bamboo (Bambusa sp.): Bamboo groves are common in the sanctuary and provide food and shelter for various animals, including elephants.

Mahua (Madhuca longifolia): The Mahua tree is culturally significant for local communities, and its flowers are used to produce edible oil.

Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon): The Tendu tree is known for its leaves, which are used to make traditional Indian "beedis" (thin cigarettes).

Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna): The Arjuna tree is found near water bodies and has medicinal properties in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.

Jamun (Syzygium cumini): The Jamun tree bears delicious fruit and provides food for various birds and animals.

Harra (Terminalia chebula): The Harra tree's fruit is used in traditional medicine and has various health benefits.

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a rich diversity of fauna, including a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and other animal species. The sanctuary's diverse habitats, such as dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and water bodies, support a wide range of wildlife. 

Here are some of the prominent fauna found in Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary:

Mammals:

• Bengal Tiger
• Leopard
• Sloth Bear
• Wild Water Buffaloes
• Chital (Spotted Deer)
• Sambar Deer
• Wild Boar
• Indian Bison (Gaur)
• Four-Horned Antelope
• Indian Wolf
• Striped Hyena
• Indian Fox
• Indian Pangolin
• Indian Hare

Birds:

• Indian Roller
• White-rumped Vulture
• Indian Pitta
• Asian Paradise Flycatcher
• Painted Stork 
• Red Junglefowl
• Indian Peafowl
• Great Indian Hornbill

Reptiles:

• Indian Python
• Indian Cobra
• Common Krait
• Russell's Viper
• Indian Monitor Lizard

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. Where is Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary located?/In which district is Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary?/Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary is located at?

A. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Raipur district of Chhattisgarh, India. 

Q. When was Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary was established?

A. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary was established in the year 1976. It was created with the primary objective of conserving the diverse flora and fauna found in the region. Since its establishment, the sanctuary has been playing a crucial role in the conservation of various wildlife species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and more, while also offering opportunities for nature enthusiasts and tourists to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Q. What is the Speciality of Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary?

A. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary is known for several special features that make it a unique and important conservation area in Chhattisgarh, India. Some of its specialties include:

(i) Biodiversity: The sanctuary boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna. It provides habitat to various mammal species, including the Bengal tiger, leopard, sloth bear, chital, and sambar deer. It is also home to numerous bird species and reptiles, making it a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

(ii) Tiger Conservation: Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary plays a crucial role in the conservation of the endangered Bengal tiger. While tiger sightings are relatively rare, the sanctuary's efforts in preserving its habitat contribute to the larger goal of tiger conservation in India.

(iii) Wetland Habitats: The Balar Reservoir within the sanctuary provides a valuable wetland habitat, attracting a variety of wetland birds and fish species. This adds to the biodiversity and ecological richness of the area.

(iv) Ecotourism Opportunities: Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary offers opportunities for ecotourism, where visitors can enjoy jeep safaris, nature walks, and birdwatching, all while respecting the natural environment and wildlife.

(v) Coexistence with Tribal Communities: The sanctuary's proximity to tribal villages allows visitors to experience the harmonious coexistence of human communities with wildlife. It provides insights into the traditional lifestyle and culture of the local tribes.