Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Pakhal Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, is a protected area located in the state of Telangana in India. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary to protect the Pakhal Lake and the surrounding ecosystem.
The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.The diverse avian population makes Pakhal a popular destination for birdwatchers. It's a habitat for various migratory and resident bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.
The sanctuary also houses a variety of plant species, including dry deciduous forest, mixed forest, and grasslands, which provide vital habitat for the resident wildlife.
Visitors to Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary can enjoy activities such as wildlife photography, nature walks, and boating on the Pakhal Lake. It's a serene and beautiful place to appreciate the natural beauty of the region while observing its wildlife.
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Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Warangal district of the Indian state of Telangana. It is situated approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) east of the city of Warangal.
The central attraction of the sanctuary is the Pakhal Lake, which is surrounded by lush greenery and serves as the focal point of the protected area. The sanctuary's location in the Deccan Plateau region of India contributes to its unique ecosystem and biodiversity.
Visitors can access the sanctuary by road from Warangal or nearby towns and cities in Telangana.
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary is the Warangal Airport, also known as the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Airport. It is located at Mamnoor, approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the sanctuary. This airport primarily serves domestic flights and offers limited connectivity. Travelers looking for international flights may need to use the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, which is the nearest major international airport and is located about 200 kilometers (124 miles) away from Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary.
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary is the Warangal Railway Station, also known as Kazipet Junction. It is well-connected to various major cities in India, including Hyderabad, Secunderabad, New Delhi, Chennai, and others. The distance between Warangal Railway Station and Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles). Travelers can hire taxis or use other local transportation options to reach the sanctuary from the railway station.
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary History
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary has a history that dates back to ancient times. Here's a brief overview of its history:
Kakatiya Dynasty: The origin of Pakhal Lake, which forms the centerpiece of the sanctuary, can be traced back to the Kakatiya Dynasty in the 13th century. The Kakatiya rulers constructed a dam across a tributary of the Krishna River to create the lake. The primary purpose was to serve as a source of irrigation for the surrounding agricultural lands.
Declaration as a Sanctuary: Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary was declared as a protected area in 1952. The main aim was to protect the rich biodiversity of the region, including the lake and its surrounding ecosystem, as well as to conserve various wildlife species.
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary Area
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 860.2 square kilometers. The sanctuary's diverse landscape includes dry deciduous forests, mixed forests, and grasslands, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary Lake
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary is known for Pakhal Lake, which is an artificial lake situated at the heart of the sanctuary. Here are some details about Pakhal Lake:
Origin: Pakhal Lake is an ancient man-made reservoir that dates back to the Kakatiya Dynasty, which ruled the region in the 13th century. The lake was constructed by damming a tributary of the Krishna River, creating a reservoir to provide irrigation for nearby agricultural lands.
Size and Area: The lake spans an area of about 30 square kilometers (11.6 square miles) and is surrounded by a sanctuary covering approximately 860 square kilometers. The lake is the central feature and the largest body of water within the sanctuary.
Ecological Importance: Pakhal Lake plays a crucial role in the ecosystem of the sanctuary. It acts as a source of water for the local wildlife, especially during dry periods. The lake, surrounded by hills and forests, provides a suitable habitat for various species of animals and birds.
Flora and Fauna: The lake and its surrounding areas are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The rich biodiversity includes various species of trees, plants, fish, reptiles, and numerous migratory and resident bird species.
Tourism and Activities: The scenic beauty of Pakhal Lake attracts tourists, nature enthusiasts, and birdwatchers. Tourists can engage in activities like boating, birdwatching, and wildlife photography while enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the lake and its surroundings.
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
What is the flora of Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary?
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary in Telangana, India, is home to a diverse range of flora due to its varying topography, including dry deciduous forests, mixed forests, and grasslands. Here are some of the notable flora species found in Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary:
Tectona grandis (Teak): Teak is a valuable hardwood tree known for its timber, which is used in furniture and construction.
Anogeissus latifolia (Axlewood): Axlewood is a deciduous tree species commonly found in dry forests and provides habitat and forage for wildlife.
Terminalia tormentosa: Terminalia tormentosa is a species of Terminalia tree, and these trees are often used for medicinal and ecological purposes.
Cleistanthus collinus: Cleistanthus collinus is a tree species known for its toxicity; it contains toxic compounds and is not typically used for commercial purposes.
Dendrocalamus strictus (Bamboo): Dendrocalamus strictus is a species of bamboo, which is valued for various uses, including construction, handicrafts, and as a food source for wildlife.
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
What is the fauna of Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary?/Which animal is famous in Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary?
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary in Telangana, India, is home to a variety of wildlife species due to its diverse habitats, including dry deciduous forests, mixed forests, grasslands, and the Pakhal Lake. Here are some of the notable fauna found in Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Hyena
- Wolf
- Sloth Bear
- Grey Langur
Birds:
- Cotton Teal
- Painted Stork
- Spotted Owlet
- Brown Fish Owl
- Common Hawk-Cuckoo
- Purple Sunbird
Reptiles:
- Mugger
- Monitor Lizard
- Spectacled Cobra
- Russell’s Viper
- Forsten’s Cat Snake
Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Where is Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary located?/Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary located in which district/state?
A. Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Warangal district of the Indian state of Telangana. It is situated approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) east of the city of Warangal. The sanctuary encompasses Pakhal Lake, an artificial reservoir, and the surrounding forested and grassland areas.
Q. Which river flows through Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary does not have a river flowing through it. Instead, it is centered around Pakhal Lake, which is an artificial lake created by damming a tributary of the Krishna River during the Kakatiya dynasty in the 13th century.
Q. What is Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary in Telangana, India, is famous for several reasons:
(i) Pakhal Lake: The sanctuary is renowned for Pakhal Lake, an ancient man-made reservoir dating back to the Kakatiya Dynasty. The lake is a picturesque and serene water body surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
(ii) Biodiversity: Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, spotted deer, nilgai, and numerous bird species. Birdwatchers, in particular, are attracted to the sanctuary to observe migratory and resident avian species.
(iii) Scenic Beauty: The sanctuary's diverse landscapes, including dry deciduous forests, mixed forests, grasslands, and the lake itself, offer scenic beauty and opportunities for eco-tourism and nature walks.
(iv) Eco-Tourism: Visitors can engage in various activities such as boating, wildlife photography, and trekking while enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility of the sanctuary.
(v) Historical Significance: The sanctuary's history is intertwined with the Kakatiya Dynasty, which constructed the Pakhal Lake. The historical remnants and the cultural significance of the region add to its appeal.
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