The Sundarbans National Park is a remarkable natural wonder located in West Bengal, India. It serves as a national park, tiger reserve, and biosphere reserve, forming part of the vast Sundarbans region that extends into Bangladesh. Situated in the southwestern region of Bangladesh, the Sundarbans is a sprawling delta characterized by dense mangrove forests and is renowned as one of the largest strongholds for the majestic Bengal tiger. This unique ecosystem also supports a diverse array of bird species, reptiles, and invertebrates, including the formidable salt-water crocodile.
Originally designated as the core area of the Sundarban Tiger Reserve in 1973 and later established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1977, the Sundarbans National Park was officially declared a national park on May 4, 1984. The park’s exceptional ecological value led to its inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Furthermore, in recognition of its significance as a wetland ecosystem, it has been designated as a Ramsar site since 2019. Additionally, it holds the distinction of being part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, designated as a Man and Biosphere Reserve since 1989.
The history of the Sundarbans reveals the early efforts to manage and protect this extraordinary natural treasure. In 1869, the first forest management division was established with jurisdiction over the Sundarbans. Subsequently, in 1875, a significant portion of the mangrove forests was declared as reserved forests under the Forest Act of 1865. The remaining areas were designated as a reserve forest the following year, leading to the transfer of control from the civil administration district to the Forest Department. To streamline management and administration, a forest division was established in 1879, with its headquarters situated in Khulna, Bangladesh. The first comprehensive management plan for the Sundarbans was developed for the period of 1893-1898.
During the early 20th century, the Sundarbans remained largely unexplored and uncharted. In fact, it was excluded from the census conducted in 1911, as it was described as an unexamined and desolate territory. Stretching approximately 266 kilometers (165 miles) from the mouth of the Hugli River to the mouth of the Meghna River, the Sundarbans encompassed a vast area bordered inland by the settled districts of the 24 Parganas, Khulna, and Bakerganj. With an estimated total area of 16,900 square kilometers (6,526 square miles), the Sundarbans comprised a water-logged jungle teeming with wildlife, including tigers and various other wild species. Despite early attempts at reclamation, the region remained largely untamed. Its intricate network of river channels and creeks facilitated water transportation via steamers and native ships, connecting the Sundarbans to different parts of the Bengal region. It is important to note that the majority of the Sundarbans delta lies within the borders of Bangladesh.
The Sundarbans National Park stands as a testament to the importance of preserving and safeguarding our natural heritage. Its pristine mangrove forests, rich biodiversity, and crucial role in supporting the majestic Bengal tigers make it a site of immense ecological significance. Visitors to this unique ecosystem can witness the harmonious coexistence of various species, explore the enchanting river channels, and immerse themselves in the captivating beauty of the Sundarbans.
Administration
The administration and management of the Sundarbans National Park fall under the jurisdiction of the Directorate of Forest. The key figures responsible for overseeing the park’s affairs include the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), Wildlife & Bio-Diversity, who also holds the position of Chief Wildlife Warden, West Bengal. This high-ranking executive officer plays a pivotal role in the administration of the park.
At the local level, the Chief Conservator of Forests (South) & Director of the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve serves as the administrative head of the park. Assisting them are a deputy field director and an assistant field director. Together, they form the core administrative team responsible for ensuring the smooth operation and management of the park.
To facilitate effective management, the park area is divided into two ranges, each supervised by a range forest officer. These officers oversee the day-to-day activities and conservation efforts within their respective ranges. Furthermore, each range is further divided into beats, which serve as smaller administrative units for efficient management of the park’s resources.
In order to combat poaching and protect the invaluable natural resources of the Sundarbans, the park is equipped with floating watch stations and camps strategically positioned throughout its expanse. These watch stations and camps act as surveillance points, ensuring the safety and security of the park’s flora and fauna.
Financial support for the Sundarbans National Park is provided by both the state government and the Ministry of Environment and Forests. The park receives funding through various plan and non-plan budgets, enabling the implementation of conservation projects, infrastructure development, and research initiatives. Additionally, the park benefits from financial assistance allocated under the Project Tiger scheme, which is funded by the Central Government.
Recognizing the Sundarbans’ global significance as a World Heritage Site, efforts are made to garner international support. In 2001, the park received a grant of US$20,000 from the World Heritage Fund as preparatory assistance for promoting cooperation between India and Bangladesh in the management and conservation of this shared natural treasure.
Geography
The Sundarbans National Park is located in the geographical coordinates of 21° 432′ – 21° 55′ N latitude and 88° 42′ – 89° 04′ E longitude. Situated at an average altitude of 7.5 meters above sea level, the park is characterized by its unique island formation and the presence of several distributaries of the Ganges river.
The climate in the Sundarbans region is influenced by its proximity to the Bay of Bengal. The average minimum and maximum temperatures range around 20 °C and 48 °C, respectively. The area experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity, with levels reaching up to 80%. The monsoon season lasts from mid-June to mid-September, while the prevailing winds vary from north and north-east from October to mid-March, and southwest westerlies prevail from mid-March to September. The region is prone to storms, which occasionally develop into cyclones, particularly during the months of May to October.
The Sundarbans is characterized by a network of channels formed by seven main rivers and numerous watercourses. These rivers flow southward towards the sea, and their tidal effect plays a crucial role in shaping the eco-geography of the area. The tidal range ranges from 3 to 5 meters, and in normal spring tide, it can reach up to 8 meters. The continuous tidal action deposits silts on the channels, leading to the formation of new islands and creeks. However, the geomorphology of the Sundarbans is unpredictable due to these dynamic processes. The Bay of Bengal also features a unique natural depression known as the Swatch of No Ground, which abruptly changes the water depth from 20 meters to 500 meters. This phenomenon contributes to the shifting of silts towards the south and/or east, resulting in the formation of new islands.
The Sundarbans is renowned for its mudflats, which are found in the estuary and on the deltaic islands where the river and tidal currents exhibit low velocity. These mudflats undergo morphological changes within a single tidal cycle, as they are exposed during low tides and submerged during high tides. The interior parts of the mudflats provide an ideal environment for the growth of mangroves.
The flora and fauna of the Sundarbans National Park showcase a diverse range of species within its complex ecosystem. The Sundari tree, a unique variety of mangrove tree, is prominently found in this region and lends its name to the Sundarbans. These trees possess specialized roots called pneumatophores that emerge above the ground, facilitating respiration in waterlogged conditions. The park is also home to a variety of reptiles, including gharials, estuarine crocodiles, chameleons, monitor lizards, and various snake species. Additionally, endangered species such as the royal Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodile, river terrapin, olive ridley turtle, Ganges river dolphin, hawksbill turtle, and mangrove horseshoe crab inhabit the Sundarbans.
The coastal waters off the Sundarbans, known as the Swatch of No Ground Marine Protected Area, serve as critical habitats for endangered cetaceans. This includes resident groups of Bryde’s whales, Irrawaddy dolphins, Spinner dolphins, Ganges river dolphins, and Chinese white dolphins. Other marine mammals such as Indo-Pacific finless porpoises, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, Pantropical spotted dolphins, Minke whales, Rough-toothed dolphins, and False killer whales can also be found in the area.
Management and special projects
The management of Sundarbans National Park involves various strategies and initiatives aimed at preserving the park’s unique ecosystem and protecting its wildlife. The core area of the park is strictly protected, prohibiting human disturbances such as wood collection, honey gathering, fishing, and other activities. However, in the buffer area, these activities are permitted to a limited extent.
The park is safeguarded by a team of forest staff who patrol the area using motorboats and launches to combat illegal poaching and theft. Forest offices and camps are strategically located throughout the park, and anti-poaching camps are managed by experienced workers under the supervision of a range officer.
Habitat conservation for wildlife is a priority, and it is achieved through eco-conservation, eco-development, training, education, and research. Forest Protection Committees and Eco-development Committees have been established in the fringe areas of the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve to actively contribute to these efforts. Seminars, workshops, and awareness camps are organized to educate local communities and raise awareness about eco-conservation and eco-development. Additionally, mangrove and other plant species are planted in the fringe area to meet the fuel wood requirements of nearby villages and conserve the buffer zone. Conservation measures are also implemented to preserve soil quality and maintain ecological balance. The park features sweet water ponds to provide drinking water for the wild animals.
Another significant aspect of management involves addressing human-tiger conflicts and reducing casualties. Strict control over human movement within the tiger reserve, alternative income generation projects, and public awareness campaigns have led to a significant decrease in the number of casualties caused by man-eating tigers. Innovative methods such as the use of human masks and electric human dummies help deter tigers from approaching human settlements. Measures like nylon net fencing and solar illumination are implemented to prevent tigers from straying into nearby villages. Local youths are trained to manage tiger encounters effectively.
To enhance public awareness, the Mangrove Interpretation Centre is established at Sajnekhali. This center plays a vital role in educating local communities and tourists about the importance of nature conservation, particularly the significance of preserving mangrove ecosystems.
However, despite conservation efforts, there are some challenges and constraints faced in the management of Sundarbans National Park. The complex geographical terrain, traversed by numerous rivers and tributaries, along with the long international border with Bangladesh, poses difficulties in monitoring and preventing poaching and illegal activities. Insufficient staff, infrastructure, and limited funding further compound these challenges.
Park-specific information
Sundarbans National Park is a remarkable and unique natural treasure located in West Bengal, India. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, stunning mangrove forests, and being the largest habitat for the majestic Bengal tiger. Let’s explore some key aspects of this exceptional national park.
Size and Location: Covering an expansive area of approximately 4,260 square kilometers (1,640 square miles), Sundarbans National Park is situated in the southern part of the Sundarbans delta, adjacent to the Sundarban Reserve Forest in Bangladesh. It lies between 21° 432′ – 21° 55′ N latitude and 88° 42′ – 89° 04′ E longitude.
Mangrove Ecosystem: The park is famous for its extensive mangrove forests, which are considered the largest in the world. These mangroves play a vital role in maintaining the coastal ecosystem and act as a natural protective barrier against cyclones and tidal surges. Sundarbans is home to several species of mangrove trees, with the Sundari tree being the most prominent. The mangroves’ specialized roots, known as pneumatophores, provide respiration support during the waterlogged rainy season.
Biodiversity: Sundarbans National Park boasts an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. It is home to numerous species of plants, including various mangrove species, grasses, and orchids. The park’s fauna is equally impressive, with the iconic Bengal tiger being the star attraction. Other notable wildlife species found here include saltwater crocodiles, Indian boars, spotted deer, wild boars, fishing cats, Gangetic dolphins, and numerous reptiles and bird species. The park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300 avian species recorded, including the endangered masked finfoot and the impressive white-bellied sea eagle.
Tiger Reserve and Conservation Efforts: Sundarbans National Park is an essential tiger reserve dedicated to the conservation of the Bengal tiger. The park’s core area is strictly protected, allowing the tigers to thrive undisturbed. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and minimizing human-wildlife conflicts. The park authorities actively engage in monitoring tiger populations, tracking their movements, and implementing measures to reduce human casualties caused by tigers.
Visitor Experience: Sundarbans National Park offers a unique and adventurous experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Guided boat safaris allow visitors to explore the park’s waterways, offering glimpses of wildlife and the mesmerizing beauty of the mangrove forests. Visitors can also visit the Mangrove Interpretation Centre at Sajnekhali to learn more about the park’s ecology, conservation efforts, and the significance of mangrove ecosystems.
Preservation Challenges: Despite its protected status, Sundarbans National Park faces various challenges. Illegal activities such as poaching, wood cutting, and fishing still occur, putting pressure on the park’s fragile ecosystem. Natural disasters like cyclones and rising sea levels pose additional threats. Conservation organizations, park authorities, and local communities continue to work together to address these challenges through increased surveillance, awareness campaigns, sustainable livelihood initiatives, and ecosystem preservation measures.
In conclusion, Sundarbans National Park stands as a testament to the beauty and resilience of nature. With its expansive mangrove forests, diverse wildlife, and dedicated conservation efforts, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors while playing a crucial role in protecting the iconic Bengal tiger and preserving the delicate coastal ecosystem.
Sunderban Tiger Reserve
Sunderban Tiger Reserve, located in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, India, is a significant conservation area dedicated to protecting the unique mangrove ecosystem and the endangered Bengal tigers. Let’s delve into some key information about Sunderban Tiger Reserve and the challenges it faces.
Geographical and Ecological Setting: Covering a total area of 2,585 square kilometers, Sunderban Tiger Reserve is situated in the larger Sunderban landscape, which includes contiguous mangrove forests extending into Bangladesh. The reserve comprises both populated areas and dense forest, with approximately 1,437.4 square kilometers inhabited by local communities and the remaining 1,474 square kilometers covered by forests. The mangroves of Sunderban are part of the largest mangrove system in the Indian subcontinent and provide a habitat for diverse wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles, estuarine and marine turtles, various bird species, fishing cats, spotted deer, rhesus monkeys, and wild pigs.
Unique Habitat and Biotic Pressure: One distinctive feature of Sunderban Tiger Reserve is its isolation from other tiger-occupied mainlands, as it lacks forest connections. This isolation creates significant biotic pressure as local communities depend on the forest resources for their livelihood. Licensed collectors, under the Indian Forest Service, gather around 50 metric tonnes of honey and 3 metric tonnes of wax annually from the reserve. The habitat comprises numerous narrow tidal channels and islands, which tigers effortlessly traverse, leading to frequent human-tiger interactions.
Challenges and Conservation Efforts: One of the major challenges faced by Sunderban Tiger Reserve is the human-tiger conflict. Tigers occasionally prey on humans, resulting in fatalities. Over the past four decades, it is estimated that more than a thousand local people have been killed by tigers. Efforts are being made to mitigate this conflict and ensure the safety of both humans and tigers. However, conducting a precise estimation of the tiger population using refined methodologies has been challenging due to the unique habitat and the impact of high and low tides. The reserve is implementing a combination of radio telemetry and pugmark deposition rate analysis to estimate the tiger population accurately.
Natural Disasters and Damage: Sunderban Tiger Reserve has faced the wrath of severe cyclones in recent years. Cyclone Aila, which struck in May 2009, caused significant damage to field camps, fringe villages, and infrastructure. The cyclone led to flooding, erosion, and damage to staff quarters and facilities. Cyclone Amphan, making landfall in May 2020, resulted in the destruction of the nylon fencing meant to prevent tigers from entering the forest-fringe villages. Despite initial concerns, post-cyclone patrols revealed no tiger casualties, offering glimpses of the animals roaming freely in the forest.
Conservation Planning and Committees: To address the ongoing challenges and formulate effective conservation strategies, a tiger conservation plan for Sunderban Tiger Reserve is eagerly awaited. Additionally, the establishment of the State level Steering Committee, chaired by the Chief Minister, and the reserve-specific Tiger Conservation Foundation are crucial steps towards strengthening conservation efforts and ensuring coordinated action.
Despite these challenges, Sunderban Tiger Reserve remains a vital stronghold for the Bengal tiger and the remarkable mangrove ecosystem. The reserve’s conservation initiatives, combined with community engagement and awareness, are key to safeguarding the future of this unique habitat and its iconic inhabitants.
Sundarban Transport
Transportation options to reach Sundarbans National Park are available through air, rail, and road networks. Here’s detailed information about each mode of transportation:
Air: The nearest major airport to Sundarbans National Park is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, located approximately 140 kilometers away. This airport serves both domestic and international flights, connecting the region to various destinations worldwide. From the airport, visitors can make further travel arrangements to reach the park.
Rail: For those opting for rail travel, the nearest railway station to Sundarbans National Park is Canning railway station. It is situated about 29 kilometers away from the gateway of Sundarbans, known as Godhkhali. Canning railway station is well-connected to Kolkata and other major cities in India. From the railway station, visitors can continue their journey by hiring local transportation or arranging for a private vehicle to reach the park.
Road: Sundarbans National Park can be accessed via roadways, particularly State Highway 3 in West Bengal. The park is approximately 140 kilometers away from Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal. Visitors can travel by private vehicles, taxis, or buses from Kolkata to reach Sundarbans National Park. The route offers scenic views and passes through various towns and villages. It is advisable to plan the journey in advance, considering the travel time and road conditions.
Please note that once you reach the Sundarbans area, specific transportation arrangements, such as boats or motorized vessels, may be required to navigate the waterways within the park. These arrangements can typically be made locally or through authorized tour operators.
Ecosystem valuation
The Sundarbans National Park holds significant ecological value, providing a range of ecosystem services that contribute to the well-being of both local communities and the wider environment. A comprehensive economic assessment conducted in 2015 shed light on the estimated annual value of these ecosystem services.
One of the primary ecosystem services highlighted in the study is the nursery function of the Sundarbans, which supports the growth and development of various species. This service alone was estimated to be worth ₹5.17 billion annually. The park also plays a crucial role in gene-pool protection, conserving the genetic diversity of plants and animals, and was valued at ₹2.87 billion.
The provisioning of fish from the Sundarbans was another significant service, with an estimated value of ₹1.6 billion. This highlights the importance of the park’s mangrove ecosystem as a breeding ground and habitat for various fish species. Additionally, the Sundarbans provides waste assimilation services, helping to filter and absorb pollutants, which were valued at ₹1.5 billion.
Beyond these direct services, the economic assessment study recognized several other valuable contributions of the Sundarbans. The park generates employment opportunities for local communities, contributing around ₹36 million annually. It also acts as a natural barrier, moderating the impact of cyclonic storms, which was valued at ₹275 million. The Sundarbans provides crucial habitat and refugia for wildlife, amounting to a value of ₹360 million. Furthermore, the sequestration of carbon, a vital climate regulation service, was estimated at ₹462 million.
Overall, the assessment estimated that the Sundarbans National Park provides flow benefits worth ₹12.8 billion annually. This valuation underscores the importance of preserving and protecting the park’s unique ecosystem, not only for its ecological significance but also for the multitude of economic and social benefits it offers to both local communities and society at large.