Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has officially notified Ken Nala in the Gulra area of Shravasti as a biodiversity heritage site. The announcement was made by District Magistrate Annapurna Garg, who described the move as a significant step towards promoting environmental conservation and ecotourism in the region.
Historical and Religious Significance of Shravasti
CM Yogi highlighted that Shravasti is believed to have been founded by Lav, the son of Lord Ram, and is revered as a place where Lord Buddha spent the maximum number of Chaturmas (rainy-season retreats). The city also holds an important place in Jain traditions as a major pilgrimage centre. The government is undertaking various initiatives to develop Shravasti as a prominent tourism destination.
Unique Ecosystem of Ken Nala
Ken Nala, located within the Bhinga range of the Shravasti forest division, is a unique freshwater ecosystem known for its clean and pristine water. The site is particularly noted for the presence of the rare freshwater mangrove species Barringtonia acutangula, locally known as Injad. This ecosystem is sustained by multiple water channels originating from forested areas, agricultural lands, and hill streams.
Area and Legal Status
The Bhinga reserved forest covers a total area of 452.88 hectares, of which 80 hectares have now been officially declared a Biodiversity Heritage Site. Although the entire area is under the control of the forest department and not currently included in the protected area network under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, it plays a vital role in conservation efforts.
Biodiversity and Ecological Importance
The region serves as a natural habitat for a wide variety of terrestrial and aquatic species, including wildlife, birds, and other fauna. It supports significant biodiversity and provides an important ecological niche for numerous plant and animal species. It also serves as a seasonal migratory habitat for several bird species and is home to a variety of medicinal plants.
Sohelwa Wildlife Sanctuary
Suhelwa forest (Shravasti district) was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1988. Occupying an area of 452 km, the sanctuary is covered with sal, sheesham, khair, sagaun (teak), asna, jamun, haldu, phaldu, dhamina, jhingan, and bahera trees. The fauna found in the sanctuary includes leopard, tiger, bear, wildcat, wild boar, and various birds. Sohelwa Wildlife division is situated on the Indo-Nepal border, with five ranges – Tulsipur, Barahawa, Bankatwa, East Sohelwa, and West Sohelwa – covering a total area of 452 km. Adjacent to the sanctuary area are the Shivalik Ranges of the Himalaya.
