The Uttar Pradesh Government has recently undertaken a critical wildlife conservation action. In an effort to bolster the Gharial, or Gavialis gangeticus, population within its natural habitat, several of these unique creatures were released into the Ghaghara river. This move is not just about wildlife preservation, it also signals the government’s firm commitment towards maintaining ecological balance and water purity since a healthy Gharial population indicates clean river water.
A Deep Dive into Gharial Natural Habitat and Significance
Native to freshwater habitats in the northern part of India, Gharials are a type of Asian crocodilian known for their long, thin snouts that resemble a pot (ghara in Hindi). They’re part of the larger Crocodilian family that comprises crocodiles, alligators, caimans, etc. India is home to three specific Crocodilian species: Gharials – critically endangered, Mugger crocodiles – vulnerable, and Saltwater crocodiles – least concern. On comparing behavioral aspects, Gharials are relatively shy and harmless species compared to Crocodiles.
Primary Habitat: The Chambal River
The Chambal river, originating from the Singar Chouri peak on the northern slopes of the Vindhya mountains in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, plays host to the largest Gharial population. This river, with tributaries including Banas, Kali Sindh, and Parbati, ultimately joins the Yamuna River in Etawah District of Uttar Pradesh. The National Chambal Sanctuary, recognized for its critically endangered Gharials, the red-crowned roof turtle, and the endangered Ganges river dolphin, is situated along this river.
Secondary Habitats and Gharials’ Status
For Gharials, secondary habitats include rivers such as Ghaghara and Gandak, Girwa (within Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh), the Ramganga (in Jim Corbett National Park), and the Sone. Recognized as critically endangered in the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Species, Gharials are also listed under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, and on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
The Threats and Conservation Efforts
Despite various conservation efforts, such as breeding centres at Kukrail Gharial Rehabilitation Centre in Lucknow and the Gharial Eco Park in Madhya Pradesh, Gharials face several threats to their existence. Their preferred sandbank habitats are often destroyed by wild animals and humans alike. They are also vulnerable to the perils of increased river pollution, dam construction, large-scale fishing operations, and floods. To add to their woes, illegal sand mining and poaching pose significant threats.
The Crucial Role of Ghaghara River
The Ghaghara River, originating near Gurla Mandhata peak south of Mansarovar in Tibet and known as the Karnaili in Western Nepal, provides a critical aquatic corridor for Gharials in Uttar Pradesh. The Ghaghara River is home to crucial tributaries like the Sarda, the Sarju (where Ayodhya is located), and the Rapti. This river eventually merges with the Ganga downstream of Chhapra in Bihar. The sandy river bed and multiple stream branches of the Ghaghara make it an ideal habitat for the Gharials, hence contributing significantly to their preservation.
