Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is situated in the foothills of the Western Ghats (Sahyadri Range). 

The sanctuary's name is derived from the Tansa River, which divides it into two parts. The sanctuary also includes the catchment areas of Tansa, Vaitarna, and Modak Sagar lakes, which are important water sources for Mumbai, Thane, and Bhiwandi.

The sanctuary is home to the Mahuli Fort, situated on a hilltop at an elevation of 762 meters. This fort highlights the historical importance of the area.

The sanctuary features diverse vegetation, including Southern Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest and patches of Evergreen forest. It is home to various wildlife species, including leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, barking deer, sambar deer, and a variety of bird species. The sanctuary's water bodies also support aquatic life.

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary has the potential for ecotourism and nature-based activities like birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and nature walks. The natural beauty and diversity of the sanctuary attract visitors interested in experiencing the Western Ghats' biodiversity.

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

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Maharashtra, India. The sanctuary spans across the Wada, Shahapur, and Mokhada talukas (administrative subdivisions) of Thane district in Maharashtra. It also extends into the Wada taluka of Palghar district.

It is situated approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Mumbai, in the foothills of the Sahyadris (Western Ghats). 

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (also known as Mumbai Airport or CSIA). It's located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, approximately 90 kilometers southwest of the sanctuary.

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is Atgaon Railway Station. It's located about 18 kilometers from the sanctuary and is situated on the Mumbai Suburban Railway's Central Line.

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary History

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary's history is closely tied to its geographical and ecological significance, as well as its role in providing water resources to the surrounding regions. 

Formation and Establishment: Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary was established on 12th June 1970 to protect the diverse flora and fauna of the region, as well as to safeguard the catchment area of Tansa Lake. The sanctuary was established to ensure the conservation of the natural ecosystems in the area and maintain the quality of the water bodies that supply water to the nearby cities of Mumbai, Thane, and Bhiwandi.

Historical Importance: The presence of the Mahuli Fort within the sanctuary's boundaries indicates the historical importance of the area. The Mahuli Fort, situated on a hilltop, reflects the historical and cultural heritage of the region.

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 320 square kilometers. The sanctuary's relatively large area encompasses diverse ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, water bodies, and hills. This variety of habitats contributes to its rich biodiversity and the presence of various plant and animal species.

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary River

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is associated with two major rivers: the Tansa River and the Vaitarna River. These rivers play a significant role in the sanctuary's ecosystem and provide water resources to the region. Here's more information about these rivers:

(1) Tansa River:

The sanctuary gets its name from the Tansa River, which divides the sanctuary into two parts. The Tansa River is a major water body in the region and is known for forming the catchment area of the Tansa reservoir. This reservoir, along with others like Vaitarna and Bhatsa reservoirs, serves as a crucial source of water supply for the megacities of Mumbai and Thane. The Tansa River's flow and the reservoir's presence contribute to the sanctuary's biodiversity by providing water and supporting various aquatic and riparian species.

(2) Vaitarna River:

The Vaitarna River is another significant river that flows within the boundaries of Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary. It contributes to the sanctuary's diverse ecosystems and water resources. Like the Tansa River, the Vaitarna River also plays a role in forming the catchment area of the Vaitarna reservoir, which is essential for providing water to the surrounding urban areas.

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary Lake

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is closely associated with the Tansa Lake, which is a significant water body located within the sanctuary's boundaries. 

Tansa Lake: 

Tansa Lake is a reservoir situated within the Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary. It covers an area of approximately 20 square kilometers and is a major water source for the nearby cities of Mumbai, Thane, and Bhiwandi. The lake is formed by the Tansa River, which flows through the sanctuary and collects water from its catchment area.

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora, including various plant species that thrive in its different ecosystems. The Sanctuary has Southern Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest, with a few patches of Evergreen forest. 

Here are some of the notable plant species found in Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary:

• Teak 
• Khair 
• Kadam 
• Adina cordifolia
• Mahua
• Red Silk Cotton
• Bamboo

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including a variety of animals that inhabit its different ecosystems. The sanctuary's rich biodiversity contributes to its significance as a protected area. 

Here are some of the notable animal species found in Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary:

Mammals:

• Leopard
• Striped Hyaena
• Barking Deer
• Mouse Deer
• Four-horned Antelope
• Chital
• Sambar
• Wild Boar
• Indian Desert Cat
• Rusty-Spotted Cat
• Golden Jackal
• Black-naped Hare
• Indian Porcupine
• Ruddy Mongoose 
• Small India Civet
• Indian Pangolin

Birds:

• Crested Serpent Eagle
• Paradise Flycatcher
• Gyps species of vultures
• Pallas’s Fish-Eagle

Reptiles:

• Indian Pond Terrapin 
• Common Indian Monitor Lizard 
• Indian Rock Python 
• Trinket Snake 
• Rat Snake

Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary which state?/In which district is Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary?

A. Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It spans across several districts within Maharashtra:

Thane District: The sanctuary is primarily situated in the Thane district of Maharashtra. It covers areas within the Wada, Shahapur, and Mokhada talukas (administrative subdivisions) of Thane district.

Palghar District: Additionally, the sanctuary extends into the Wada taluka of Palghar district, which is adjacent to Thane district.

In summary, Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Maharashtra, India, primarily within Thane district and partially within Palghar district.

Q. When was Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary established?

A. Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary was officially established on 12th June, 1970. It was designated as a protected area to conserve the diverse flora, fauna, and ecosystems within its boundaries. The sanctuary's establishment aimed to ensure the preservation of the natural habitats, support wildlife conservation, and protect the water catchment area of Tansa Lake, which serves as a crucial water source for the surrounding regions.

Q. What is the Tansa Sanctuary famous for?

A. Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is primarily known for its ecological significance and its role in conserving the biodiversity of the region. Here are some of the aspects for which Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is famous:

(i) Biodiversity: The sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity, encompassing a variety of plant and animal species. The diverse ecosystems within the sanctuary support a wide range of flora and fauna, making it an important area for conservation.

(ii) Water Source: Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary is situated around the Tansa Lake, which serves as a reservoir and a crucial source of water for the nearby urban areas, including Mumbai, Thane, and Bhiwandi. The sanctuary's catchment area contributes to maintaining the quality of water supplied to these cities.

(iii) Wildlife: The sanctuary is home to various wildlife species, including leopards, barking deer, sloth bears, sambar deer, and numerous bird species. It provides a habitat for these animals, contributing to their conservation and protection.

(iv) Natural Beauty: The sanctuary's landscapes, including forests, grasslands, hills, and water bodies, offer a serene and natural environment. This makes it an attractive destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and tourists looking to experience the beauty of the Western Ghats.

(v) Historical and Cultural Significance: The presence of the Mahuli Fort within the sanctuary reflects its historical and cultural importance. The fort's historical significance adds to the overall appeal of the sanctuary.

(vi) Ecotourism Potential: Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary has the potential to attract ecotourism activities, such as birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and nature exploration. Its proximity to Mumbai makes it accessible for urban residents seeking a getaway to a natural environment.