Source: DTE
Context: Himachal Pradesh notified Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve, India’s largest protected area (1,585 sq km), to safeguard high-altitude biodiversity, particularly snow leopards, and strengthen wildlife corridors.
About Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve:
- What is Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve?
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- A protected area in Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, notified under Section 36A (1) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Aims to conserve snow leopards, rare Himalayan fauna, and critical wildlife corridors.
- Location & Significance:
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- Area: 1,585 sq km (India’s largest conservation reserve).
- Borders: Ladakh (UT), Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Kabjima Nala, and Chandratal Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Connects Kibber & Chandratal sanctuaries, acting as a vital wildlife corridor.
- Key Flora & Fauna:
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- Flagship Species: Snow leopard (“Ghost of the Mountains”).
- Other Wildlife:
- Tibetan wolf, bharal (blue sheep), Himalayan ibex, kiang (wild ass), Tibetan argali.
- Rare birds: Rose finch, Tibetan raven, yellow-billed chough.
- Ecosystem: High-altitude Trans-Himalayan biodiversity hotspot.
- Unique Features:
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- Community Involvement: Managed by a Conservation Reserve Management Committee (includes local panchayats).
- Livelihood Boost: Promotes eco-tourism, trekking, wildlife research.
- Climate Resilience: Protects snow leopard habitats and alpine ecosystems.
