As a recent development in the environmental conservation sector, Delhi’s High Court has instructed the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to deliberate on a plea that seeks to halt the purported unauthorized construction of bridges and walls within the Corbett Tiger Reserve’s tiger breeding habitat.
About National Tiger Conservation Authority
The National Tiger Conservation Authority is a legal entity formed under the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change. The initiative to establish this body was taken in 2005 following suggestions from the Tiger Task Force. The establishment was facilitated by the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, as per its amendment in 2006. The body’s primary purpose is to augment the preservation efforts of tigers, adhering to the rights and duties bestowed upon it by legislation.
Key Features of Corbett Tiger Reserve
Situated in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, the Corbett Tiger Reserve is a critical wildlife conservation space. The 1973-launched Project Tiger was initiated in Corbett National Park, which also happens to be India’s first national park.
Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, this reserve was primarily intended to protect the endangered Bengal tiger. Its current name—Corbett, is in honor of Jim Corbett, who played a pivotal role in its establishment. The core area of this reserve constitutes the Corbett National Park. Simultaneously, the buffer zone includes reserve forests and the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary.
The geography of the reserve is majorly mountainous, lying within the Shivalik and Outer Himalaya geological provinces. Significant rivers such as Ramganga, Sonanadi, Mandal, Palain and Kosi traverse the Reserve.
Flora and Fauna in Corbett Tiger Reserve
A survey by the botanical department of India revealed that Corbett houses around 600 plant species. Included within these are trees, shrubs, ferns, grass, climbers, herbs, and bamboos. The most commonly sighted trees in Corbett are Sal, Khair and Sissoo.
The reserve is also home to a myriad of animal species. Besides tigers, leopards too make up the wildlife at Corbett. Other fauna varieties include jungle cats, barking deer, spotted deer, sambar deer, sloth, and many more.
Other Major Protected Areas in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is renowned for its numerous protected areas, which reflect the state’s rich biodiversity. Some of these include Nanda Devi National Park, Valley of Flowers National Park, Rajaji National Park, Gangotri National Park, and Govind National Park. The Valley of Flowers National Park and Nanda Devi National Park together make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With these vast natural resources, it is upon us to maintain and protect these sites for future generations.
