What is the National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary?
The National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary is a protected area located on the Chambal River, near the trijunction of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh in India. It was first declared a protected area in Madhya Pradesh in 1978 and now operates as a long, narrow eco-reserve co-administered by the three states. The sanctuary is renowned for conserving a diverse array of wildlife, including the critically endangered gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), the red-crowned roofed turtle (Batagur kachuga), and the Ganges river dolphin (Platanista gangetica).
Why is the sanctuary important?
The sanctuary is crucial for the conservation of several endangered species, particularly the gharial, a crocodilian native to the Indian subcontinent. With a significant portion of the global population of gharials residing in the sanctuary, it plays a vital role in the survival of this species. Additionally, it is the only place in India with a sizable population of the endangered red-crowned roofed turtle. The sanctuary also supports a rich biodiversity, including the Ganges river dolphin, various species of birds, fish, and mammals, making it an important area for biodiversity conservation in India.
What threats does the sanctuary face?
Despite its status as a protected area, the National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary faces several threats, including illegal fishing, sand mining, pollution, and habitat destruction. These activities not only endanger the wildlife within the sanctuary but also degrade the ecosystem's health and resilience. Conservation efforts are ongoing to mitigate these threats through community engagement, strict enforcement of wildlife protection laws, and habitat restoration projects.
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