Source: Hindustan Times

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Context

• A severe forest fire in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary led to the deaths of four Uttarakhand forest department staffers and injuries to four others, highlighting forest fire risks.
• Uttarakhand has experienced a significant increase in forest fire incidents, with 1,213 cases reported since November 1, damaging over 1,653 hectares of forest land.

Details

Key Points

• Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary Incident:
  • A forest fire in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary resulted in the deaths of four forest department staffers and injuries to four others.
• Rising Forest Fire Incidents:
  • Uttarakhand reported 1,213 forest fire incidents since November 1, a significant increase from the previous year’s 663 incidents.
• Damage to Forest Land:
  • The fires have damaged 1,653 hectares of forest land across Garhwal, Kumaon, and wildlife administrative regions.

About Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

Location and Area:

• Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand and spans an area of approximately 45.59 square kilometres.

Biodiversity:

• The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including oak, rhododendron forests, and a variety of wildlife such as leopards, Himalayan goral, and over 200 bird species.

Conservation Efforts:

• Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary plays a crucial role in conserving the Himalayan ecosystem and is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers.

Sources:

Hindustan Times

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Consider the following statements about Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: 1. It is located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. 2.The sanctuary is primarily known for its large population of tigers. 3.It plays a crucial role in conserving the Himalayan ecosystem. Which of the above statements are correct? a) 1 and 2 only b) 1 and 3 only c) 2 and 3 only d) 1, 2, and 3 Answer: b)