Context:
As per an RTI query, the forest department has identified 12 resorts in SMTR (Tamil Nadu) which are operating illegally, without proper authorization or recognition.
About SMTR:
- Location – Tamil Nadu (Theni, Virudhunagar and Madurai districts)
- It lies in the Western Ghats region.
- India’s 51st and Tamil Nadu’s 5th tiger reserve (TR).
- Formation – By combining Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel Sanctuary and Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Connecting link – Between Kerala’s Periyar Tiger Reserve and Tamil Nadu’s Southern Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.
- Plays amajor role in the revival and restoration of Vaigai River.
- Forest type: It has grassland forests, semi evergreen forests, dry deciduous forests etc.
- Other Species: NilgiriTahr, Elephant, Lion-Tailed Macaque, Bengal tiger, gaur, leopard etc.
- Other TRs in State: Mudumalai, Anamalai, Sathyamangalam and Kalakkad-Mundanthurai.
About Vaigai River:
- Origin: Varushanad Hills (Western Ghats)
- Major City – Madurai (Tamil Nadu)
- Tributaries – Suruliyaru, Mullaiyaru, Varahanadhi, Manjalaru
- Drains into – Palk Strait
- Dam – Vaigai Dam
- The river finds a mention in Sangam literature dated to 300 before Common Era.
Source: New Indian Express
Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2020 Prelims]
- Corbett
- Ranthambore
- Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam
- Sundarbans
