Col. Sher Jung National Park
Why in News?
Col. Sher Jung National Park (widely known as Simbalbara National Park) is recently in the news due to the successful completion of a comprehensive habitat restoration project and the reported sightings of a new migratory corridor for tigers connecting it to the larger Shivalik landscape.
Geography & Location
- Location: Situated in the Paonta Valley of Sirmaur District, Himachal Pradesh.
- Area: It is one of the smallest national parks in India, covering approximately 27.88 square kilometers.
- Landscape: Characterized by Sal forests, grassy glades (khud), and perennial streams (chhos) that merge into the Shivalik hills.
- Connectivity: It borders the Kalesar National Park (Haryana) to the south and is part of the larger trans-boundary Shivalik ecosystem.
Biodiversity Profile
- Fauna: The park is home to Goral, Sambhar, Spotted Deer (Chital), Barking Deer, and Wild Boar. It also hosts predators like the Leopard and, occasionally, wandering Tigers and Elephants.
- Avian Life: A hotspot for birdwatchers, featuring over 150 species including the Grey Hornbill, Red Jungle Fowl, and various migratory raptors.
- Flora: Dominant vegetation includes Sal (Shorea robusta) trees, Semal, and diverse medicinal herbs.
Historical Background
- Established: Originally declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1958.
- Upgrade: It was upgraded to a National Park in 2010.
- Naming: Renamed in honour of Col. Sher Jung, an eminent writer, freedom fighter, and hunter-turned-conservationist who was instrumental in the region's forest management.
Conservation Challenges
- Invasive Species: The park has faced issues with invasive weeds like Lantana, which the recent restoration project has sought to eradicate.
- Human-Wildlife Conflict: Due to its small size and proximity to villages, managing crop-raiding by wild boars and sambars is a priority for the forest department.
- Climate Sensitivity: As a low-altitude tropical forest, it is particularly sensitive to changes in the monsoon pattern and forest fires.
Download Pdf
