The Surya Regional Water Supply Project recently accomplished the construction of a 4.6 km underground tunnel, facilitating water supply while preserving the Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. Located in Maharashtra’s Palghar district, this sanctuary acts as a vital corridor between Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary. The landscape features hills, dense forests, and rivers, with diverse vegetation including teak, bamboo, and mango trees. Fauna in the sanctuary comprises leopards, wild boars, langurs, and various bird species like the Crested Serpent-eagle and Jungle Owlet. Ancient temples, including the revered Tungareshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, are also nestled within its boundaries.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Surya Regional Water Supply Project: A regional infrastructure project aimed at providing a sustainable and efficient water supply system to a specific geographical area.
- Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected area located in the Palghar district of Maharashtra, India. It serves as a crucial wildlife corridor connecting two other major wildlife sanctuaries and is known for its diverse flora and fauna.
- Sanjay Gandhi National Park: A prominent national park located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, known for its biodiversity and conservation efforts.
- Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary: Another wildlife sanctuary in Maharashtra, contributing to the conservation of regional wildlife.
- Leopard, Wild Boar, Langur, Bonnet and Rhesus Macaque, and Black-naped Hare: Various wildlife species found in the Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, including big cats like leopards, herbivores like wild boars, and primates like langurs and macaques.
- Crested Serpent-eagle, Jungle Owlet, White-eyed Buzzard, Oriental Honey-buzzard, Emerald Dove, and Heart-spotted Woodpecker: Diverse bird species inhabiting the sanctuary’s rich ecosystem.
- Tungareshwar Temple: An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its cultural and religious significance within the sanctuary.
