The National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary is a protected area situated along the Chambal River, at the convergence of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh in India. Initially declared a conservation area in 1978, it now functions as a slender eco-reserve co-managed by these three states. This sanctuary is famous for its efforts in preserving diverse wildlife, which includes the critically endangered gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), the red-crowned roofed turtle (Batagur kachuga), and the Ganges river dolphin (Platanista gangetica).
The sanctuary plays a pivotal role in the conservation of several endangered species, especially the gharial, a crocodilian unique to the Indian subcontinent. A substantial segment of the global gharial population resides here, making the sanctuary essential for the species' survival. Furthermore, it is the only location in India that houses a significant number of the endangered red-crowned roofed turtle. The sanctuary also fosters a rich biodiversity, including the Ganges river dolphin, various bird species, fish, and mammals, underscoring its importance in biodiversity conservation within India.
Despite its protected status, the National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary confronts numerous threats. Illegal fishing, sand mining, pollution, and habitat destruction are significant challenges that jeopardize the wildlife in this sanctuary. These activities not only threaten the species residing within the sanctuary but also impair the overall health and resilience of the ecosystem. Ongoing conservation efforts aim to tackle these threats through community engagement, strict enforcement of wildlife protection laws, and habitat restoration initiatives.
Q1. What species are primarily protected in the National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary?
Answer: The sanctuary primarily protects the critically endangered gharial, the red-crowned roofed turtle, and the Ganges river dolphin, among other species.
Q2. How does illegal fishing affect the sanctuary's ecosystem?
Answer: Illegal fishing disrupts the food chain and impacts fish populations, which can lead to a decline in the overall biodiversity of the sanctuary.
Q3. What measures are taken for habitat restoration in the sanctuary?
Answer: Habitat restoration measures include replanting native vegetation, controlling pollution, and engaging local communities in conservation efforts to restore ecological balance.
Q4. Why is the gharial considered critically endangered?
Answer: The gharial is critically endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and declining fish populations, which are crucial for their survival.
Q5. How can the public contribute to the sanctuary's conservation?
Answer: The public can contribute by supporting conservation organizations, participating in awareness campaigns, and adhering to wildlife protection laws when visiting the area.
Question 1: What year was the National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary established?
A) 1975
B) 1978
C) 1980
D) 1990
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which species is primarily associated with the National Chambal River Gharial Sanctuary?
A) Saltwater Crocodile
B) Gharial
C) Nile Crocodile
D) Alligator
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is the main threat to the gharial population in the sanctuary?
A) Climate Change
B) Illegal Fishing
C) Habitat Conservation
D) Tourism
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which river is the sanctuary located along?
A) Yamuna
B) Ganges
C) Chambal
D) Godavari
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What is one of the conservation efforts in the sanctuary?
A) Urban Development
B) Habitat Restoration
C) Industrialization
D) Mining Activities
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: Which other endangered species can be found in the sanctuary?
A) Bengal Tiger
B) Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle
C) Indian Elephant
D) Snow Leopard
Correct Answer: B
Question 7: How is the sanctuary managed?
A) By a single state
B) Co-managed by three states
C) Managed by the central government
D) Non-government organizations only
Correct Answer: B
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