Situated near Kota, Rajasthan, the Mukundra Tiger Reserve (TR) nestles comfortably in a valley framed by two parallel mountains, Mukundra and Gargola. This geographical marvel is defined by the boundaries set by four rivers, namely the Ramzan, Ahu, Kali, and Chambal. The reserve’s location on the eastern bank of the Chambal River contributes to its picturesque scenery, as this area is drained by the river’s tributaries.
Mukundra Tiger Reserve: A Classified Protected Area
In 1955, the Mukundra Hills were declared a Wildlife Sanctuary, a status that was elevated to a National Park (Mukundra Hills (Darrah) National Park) in 2004. Following this, the park was declared a Tiger Reserve under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 in 2013, earning the title of the third Tiger Reserve of Rajasthan with the renamed entity Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve. The other two tiger reserves in the state are the renowned Ranthambore and Sariska reserves.
The Historical Tales of Mukundra
Known historically as the royal hunting ground of the Maharaja of Kota, the Mukundra reserve holds within itself many stories from the past. It derives its name ‘Darrah’ from the local language term for ‘pass’, reflecting its historical function as a hideout during wars for the Marathas, Rajputs, and the British.
Nooks and Crannies of the Reserve
The Mukundra TR comprises three Wildlife Sanctuaries – Darrah, Jawahar Sagar, and Chambhal, sprawling across four fundamental districts of Rajasthan – Kota, Bundi, Chittorgarh, and Jhalawar. The forests within the reserve are particularly dense and provide a perfect habitat for the wildlife. Other National Parks in Rajasthan include the Desert NP, Keoladeo Ghana NP, Ranthambore NP, and Sariska NP.
Chambal River: The Lifeline of Mukundra
The Chambal River originates at the Singar Chouri peak in the northern slopes of the Vindhya mountains (Indore, Madhya Pradesh). It winds its way through Madhya Pradesh before making a north-easterly shift through Rajasthan. The river then enters Uttar Pradesh where it merges with the Yamuna River in the Etawah District. This rainfed river is encased by the Vindhyan mountain ranges and the Aravallis, and along with its tributaries, drains the Malwa region of northwestern Madhya Pradesh. Distinctly, the Chambal River is one of the least polluted rivers in India, enhancing the reserve’s pristine environment.
Tiger Reserves Across India
Tiger reserves in India are integral to the country’s conservation initiatives. These protected areas provide safe havens for the endangered Bengal Tiger, along with a wide array of other flora and fauna. These reserves follow the guidelines provided by Project Tiger, an initiative started by the Indian Government in 1973, aimed at saving tigers from extinction. With the Mukundra Tiger Reserve being one of these significant establishments, other renowned reserves are also sprinkled across the country, contributing to India’s rich biodiversity.
