UPSC Prelims 2017 Q4: Environment & Ecology – Protected Areas & Wildlife
From the ecological point of view,
which one of the following assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats
and the Western Ghats?
- (a) Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
- (b) Nallamala Forest
- (c) Nagarhole National Park
- (d) Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve
Answer: (a) Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
Explanation
Linking the Eastern and Western Ghats
The Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu sits where the Western and Eastern Ghats meet.
It joins Bandipur, Mudumalai, BRT Tiger Reserve and the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, forming a vital wildlife corridor.
| Option | Location | Role |
|---|---|---|
| (a) Sathyamangalam | Tamil Nadu | Bridge between both Ghats; tiger and elephant corridor |
| (b) Nallamala | Andhra Pradesh, Telangana | Lies wholly in the Eastern Ghats |
| (c) Nagarhole | Karnataka | Part of the Western Ghats landscape |
| (d) Seshachalam | Andhra Pradesh | Lies wholly in the Eastern Ghats |
It became a Tiger Reserve in 2013.
Answer: (a) Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Sathyamangalam links the Western and Eastern Ghats as a key wildlife corridor.
- (b) Incorrect. Nallamala forest lies entirely in the Eastern Ghats.
- (c) Incorrect. Nagarhole is a Western Ghats park, not the link between both ranges.
- (d) Incorrect. Seshachalam is an Eastern Ghats biosphere reserve in Andhra Pradesh.
Key point
Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (Tamil Nadu, 2013) is the ecological link between the Western and Eastern Ghats.
Remember
Sathyamangalam = bridge between Western and Eastern Ghats.
Common mistakes
- Choosing Nagarhole because it is part of the same Nilgiri landscape; it is wholly Western Ghats.
- Picking Nallamala or Seshachalam, which lie only in the Eastern Ghats.
- Not knowing the two Ghats meet in the Nilgiri-Sathyamangalam region.
Exam tip
The Ghats meet in the Nilgiri region. Look for the reserve there.
Sources
- National Tiger Conservation Authority — Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
- Wildlife Institute of India — Tiger corridors of India