The Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh has gained attention recently due to the arrest of 53 individuals for attempting to illegally encroach upon protected forest land within the reserve. This action aims to protect the forest ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and designated areas from human interference and land degradation.
Located in the state of Chhattisgarh, the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve was established by merging the following:
The total area of the reserve covers approximately 1,842 square kilometers.
The reserve's drainage system is primarily shaped by the Mahanadi River, which is the main river flowing through the area. Important tributaries include:
These rivers play a crucial role in sustaining the forest ecosystem and wildlife.
The reserve is interconnected with:
This creates a continuous forest corridor leading to the Indravati Tiger Reserve in the Bastar region, facilitating wildlife movement and promoting genetic diversity.
The reserve is characterized by 19 named mountains, with Deo Dongri being the highest point. Another notable mountain is Atānga Dongar, recognized for its prominence in the area.
The forest types within the reserve include:
Key tree and plant species found here are:
These species contribute significantly to the rich biodiversity and productivity of the forest.
Key animal species inhabiting the reserve include:
The Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve, alongside the Indravati Tiger Reserve, serves as a critical habitat for the endangered Wild Buffalo, hosting some of the last surviving herds of this species in India.
This reserve represents an important tiger landscape in central India, supporting endangered and rare species. It acts as a biodiversity-rich forest corridor, playing a vital role in wildlife conservation and maintaining ecological balance.
Q1. What is the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve known for?
Answer: The Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is known for its significant biodiversity, including various endangered species. It plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation and maintaining ecological balance in central India.
Q2. Why were individuals arrested in the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve?
Answer: Individuals were arrested for attempting to illegally encroach upon protected forest land, which threatens the ecosystem and wildlife habitats in the reserve.
Q3. What are the main rivers in the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve?
Answer: The main river is the Mahanadi, with important tributaries including the Udanti, Sitanadi, Indravati, and Pairi rivers, all essential for sustaining the forest ecosystem.
Q4. How large is the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve?
Answer: The Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve spans approximately 1,842 square kilometers, providing a vast area for wildlife and forest conservation.
Q5. What types of flora are found in the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve?
Answer: The reserve features tropical dry and moist deciduous forests, with significant species like Sal, Teak, and various types of bamboo contributing to its rich biodiversity.
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve?
A) Agricultural development
B) Wildlife conservation
C) Urban expansion
D) Industrial growth
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which river is the main water source in the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve?
A) Indravati River
B) Pairi River
C) Mahanadi River
D) Godavari River
Correct Answer: C
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