Source: DC
Subject: Mapping
Context: Kanger Valley National Park has come into focus as the Chhattisgarh government, with support from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), has initiated biodiversity surveys to seek its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
About Kanger Valley National Park:
What it is?
- Kanger Valley National Park is a biodiversity-rich protected area known for its dense forests, limestone caves, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems, making it one of the most ecologically significant national parks in Central India.
Located in:
- Bastar district, Chhattisgarh
- About 24 km southeast of Jagdalpur on the Jagdalpur–Darbha Road
- Lies within the Deccan biogeographical zone
- Named after the Kanger River, which flows through the park
Key characteristics:
- Area: ~200 sq km
- Terrain: Highly heterogeneous, ranging from flat plains to steep slopes, plateaus, valleys, and stream courses
- Hydrology: Network of seasonal and perennial streams joining the Kanger River
- Geomorphology: Famous for subterranean limestone caves such as Kotumsar and Kailash caves, among the most biologically diverse cave systems in India and South Asia
- Flora & fauna: Dense sal and mixed forests; habitat of the Bastar Hill Myna (state bird of Chhattisgarh), along with rich mammalian, avian, reptilian, and insect diversity
- Scenic features: Tirathgarh waterfalls, valleys, and undulating forest landscapes
Current status:
- Declared a National Park in 1982 (then Madhya Pradesh Gazette).
- Managed under Jagdalpur Wildlife Circle, comprising Kotumsar and Koleng ranges.
- Included in UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites.
