Why is Mukurthi National Park In News? | Ankit Singh | StudyIQ IAS English

Summary

This video discusses Mukorti National Park in Tamil Nadu, focusing on its ecological significance and the potential impact of a nearby hydropower project. The park, located in the Nilgiri Hills, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr. The video explains the importance of environmental impact assessments (EIA) in development projects, emphasizing sustainable development. Additionally, it highlights the unique flora and fauna, including the sacred Pyra and Kunda rivers, and invites viewers to reflect on the balance between conservation and development in the region.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mukorti National Park is located in the northwest corner of Tamil Nadu, within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• 😀 The park's creation aimed to protect the **Nilgiri Tar**, a keystone species vital to the region's ecosystem.
• 😀 Mukorti National Park is surrounded by other protected areas like **Rajiv Gandhi National Park** and **Bandipur National Park**.
• 😀 An expert panel has approved an Environmental Impact Assessment for the **Upper Bhavani Pumped Hydropower Project**, which is just 1 km away from Mukorti National Park.
• 😀 The **Nilgiri Tar**, a mountain goat species, is the flagship species of Mukorti National Park, known for its role in maintaining ecological balance.
• 😀 The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is an ecological heritage site, emphasizing its global significance in conservation.
• 😀 The park is home to key rivers like **Pyra** and **Kunda**, with the **Pyra River** holding cultural significance for the **Toa Tribe**.
• 😀 Vegetation in Mukorti National Park includes **shola grasslands** and **mountain grasslands**, which thrive at high altitudes with substantial rainfall.
• 😀 The **Nilgiri Tar** prefers grasslands at altitudes of 1200 to 2600 meters above sea level, but the highest population is found in **Aravi Kulum National Park** in Kerala.
• 😀 The **Nilgiri Tar** is an endangered species, protected under **Schedule I** of the **Wildlife Protection Act of 1972**, with strict regulations on hunting and trade.
• 😀 The ongoing development project near Mukorti National Park raises concerns about the potential environmental impact, stressing the importance of sustainable development.

Q & A

What is the primary reason for the creation of Mukorti National Park?

Mukorti National Park was created primarily to protect the Nilgiri Tahr, a keystone species of the region. Protecting this species ensures the preservation of the entire ecosystem in the park.

Where is Mukorti National Park located?

Mukorti National Park is located in the northwest corner of Tamil Nadu, on the western edge of the Nilgiri Plateau, within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

Why is the Nilgiri Tahr considered a keystone species?

The Nilgiri Tahr is considered a keystone species because its protection leads to the preservation of other species and the overall ecological health of the region.

What is the significance of the Pyra River in Mukorti National Park?

The Pyra River is significant because it is sacred to the Toa tribe that inhabits the park. It also flows through the park and drains into the Bhavani Paya River.

Which other important protected areas surround Mukorti National Park?

Surrounding Mukorti National Park are Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Bandipur National Park, and other protected areas, forming a network of conservation areas in the Nilgiri Hills.

What type of vegetation is found in Mukorti National Park?

Mukorti National Park is characterized by montane grasslands and Shola grasslands, a type of high-altitude grassland ecosystem that thrives in regions with high rainfall.

Which animals are commonly found in Mukorti National Park?

Apart from the Nilgiri Tahr, Mukorti National Park is home to animals such as the Nilgiri Langur, Nilgiri Martin, Bengal Tiger, and Indian Elephant.

What are the key characteristics of the Nilgiri Tahr?

The Nilgiri Tahr is a mountain goat endemic to the Western Ghats. It is herbivorous and lives in mountain grasslands at elevations of 1,200 to 2,600 meters. It is also known as the state animal of Tamil Nadu.

What is the conservation status of the Nilgiri Tahr?

The Nilgiri Tahr is categorized as an endangered species in the IUCN Red List and is given the highest protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.

What concerns arise from the proposed Upper Bhavani Pumped Hydropower Project near Mukorti National Park?

The proposed hydropower project raises concerns about its potential impact on the environment and ecology of the nearby protected areas, especially considering its proximity to Mukorti National Park. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will help evaluate these risks.