The Union Ministry of Forests, Environment & Climate Change has introduced a draft notification for an eco-sensitive zone encircling Dachigam National Park. Situated 22 kilometers from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir, this park spans 141 square kilometers and was initially established to safeguard the clean water supply to Srinagar city. Dachigam National Park, which ranges from 5,500 to 14,000 feet in altitude, is renowned for being the last refuge of the vulnerable Hangul, or Kashmir stag. Its diverse terrain includes grasslands, cliffs, and rocky outcrops, while its rich flora features various fruit and nut trees. The park also boasts a wide range of fauna, including musk deer, leopards, and raptors.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Eco-Sensitive Zone: An eco-sensitive zone is an area surrounding a protected wildlife or natural reserve that is subjected to special regulations to safeguard the ecological balance and protect wildlife habitats.
- Hangul (Kashmir Stag): The Hangul, also known as the Kashmir stag, is a subspecies of Central Asian red deer. It is native to the Kashmir region and faces the threat of extinction, with its last significant population residing in Dachigam National Park.
- IUCN: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the Hangul as “Critically Endangered,” signifying its high risk of extinction.
- CITES (Appendix I): CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) places the Hangul in Appendix I, which includes species threatened with extinction. Trade in these species is strictly regulated, with the aim of preventing their exploitation.
- Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary: The Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, located in south Kashmir, is another significant area for the conservation of the Hangul. It houses a small population of this endangered species, contributing to its preservation efforts.
