Source: IE
Context: The blackbuck, which was declared locally extinct in Chhattisgarh in 2017, has made a remarkable recovery under a five-year revival plan (2021–2026) in the Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary.
About Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary:
What it is?
- A protected forest area and wildlife sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity, thriving herbivore and carnivore populations, and grassland–forest ecosystems that support conservation and ecotourism activities.
Located in:
- Situated in Balodabazar District, Chhattisgarh, between longitude 80°22′30″E to 82°37′30″E and latitude 21°18′45″N to 21°30′00″N.
- The sanctuary covers an area of 66 sq km and lies about 106 km from Raipur on National Highway 53.
Key Features:
- Topography: Gently undulating plains with elevations up to 640 m above sea level, crisscrossed by rivers Balmedhi, Jonk, and Mahanadi, which serve as the lifelines of the ecosystem.
- Climate: Receives an annual rainfall of around 1,200 mm, with pleasant winters from November to February.
- Flora: Dominated by Teak (Tectona grandis), Sal (Shorea robusta), and mixed deciduous forests.
- Fauna: Hosts diverse species like leopards, barking deer, bison, wild boar, chital, and now blackbuck, along with rich avian and aquatic fauna around the Balar reservoir.
- Tourism Infrastructure: Equipped with watchtowers, eco-camps, and patrol stations promoting eco-tourism and conservation awareness.
Significance:
- Biodiversity Conservation: Acts as a critical refuge for central Indian fauna, maintaining prey–predator balance.
- Successful Reintroduction Site: Known for the revival of blackbucks, showcasing India’s grassland restoration potential.
- Ecotourism Promotion: Serves as a model for sustainable tourism integrated with wildlife conservation.
