Konark–Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary
The Konark–Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary is a coastal protected area located in Puri district, Odisha, India. It is known for its scenic landscape of casuarina plantations, sandy dunes, and coastal ecosystems, stretching between the famous temple towns of Puri and Konark. The sanctuary once boasted a thriving population of spotted deer (chital), which has now reportedly been declining due to various ecological pressures.
Establishment and Location
• Declared as a Sanctuary: 23 April 1984
• Area: Approximately 87 km²
• Location: Lies along the Puri–Konark Marine Drive, covering the sandy coastal belt between these two heritage towns.
• Boundaries: • West: Puri town • East: Konark • South: Bay of Bengal • North: River Nuanai and associated backwaters
Physical Features
• The sanctuary is located on a sandy tract of coastal land, largely stabilized by extensive plantations.
• It acts as a natural barrier against coastal erosion and supports a mix of marine, riverine, and terrestrial ecosystems.
Rivers flowing through the sanctuary: • Nuanai River • Kusabhadra River • Kadua River • Prachi River
These small rivers and rivulets create freshwater pockets and support the growth of diverse vegetation along their banks.
Flora
The vegetation in the sanctuary is a blend of plantation species and natural coastal flora. Major plant species include: • Casuarina (Casuarina equisetifolia) – the dominant plantation species, helping to stabilize sand dunes. • Cashew (Anacardium occidentale) – extensively planted for soil stabilization and local livelihoods. • Jamun, Ficus, Neem, Karanj, and Polang – naturally occurring along the river courses. These trees provide both food and shade for the herbivores and nesting spaces for birds.
Fauna
• Mammals: • Spotted Deer (Chital) – once abundant, now declining. • Monkeys (Rhesus macaque and langur) • Jungle Cat, Hyena, and Jackal • Reptiles: • Monitor Lizard, various snakes including non-venomous and venomous species. • Avifauna: A variety of resident and migratory birds thrive in the coastal and riverine ecosystems. • Marine Life: • The Olive Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) is seen nesting on the sanctuary’s beach stretch.
Ecological Importance
1. Coastal Protection: The dense casuarina belt acts as a natural shield against cyclones, tidal waves, and coastal erosion. 2. Biodiversity Support: Serves as a refuge for coastal and terrestrial wildlife. 3. Turtle Nesting Ground: Provides safe nesting habitats for Olive Ridley turtles, contributing to marine biodiversity. 4. Tourism and Education: Located between two UNESCO World Heritage sites (Puri Jagannath Temple and Sun Temple, Konark), it supports eco-tourism and awareness activities.
Threats and Conservation Challenges
• Decline in Spotted Deer Population due to:
• Habitat degradation from tourism and vehicular traffic on the marine drive.
• Encroachment and human interference.
• Fragmentation of habitat caused by road networks and construction.
• Predation and poaching pressures.
• Disturbance from unregulated tourism activities along the Puri–Konark coast.
• Coastal erosion and cyclonic damage, altering the ecosystem structure.
• Pollution from plastic and vehicular waste.
Conservation Measures Needed
• Strengthening anti-poaching and monitoring mechanisms.
• Restoration of native vegetation to improve habitat quality.
• Regulating tourist movement and vehicular activity through the sanctuary.
• Enhancing community participation in wildlife protection.
• Promoting eco-tourism with strict environmental guidelines.
• Monitoring of spotted deer populations through scientific surveys.
Spotted Deer (Chital) – Key Facts
• Scientific Name: Axis axis
• Common Name: Spotted Deer or Chital
•Distribution: Widely found across India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and small pockets of Pakistan.
• Habitat: Prefers grasslands, deciduous forests, and forest edges near water bodies.
• Diet: Herbivorous – feeds on grasses, fruits, leaves, and tender shoots.
• Behavior: Highly social, usually seen in herds.
• Conservation Status: • IUCN Red List: Least Concern
• CITES: Appendix III (India)
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India): Schedule III
Significance The Konark–Balukhand Sanctuary is an important ecological buffer for Odisha’s coastal environment. Protecting its spotted deer population and turtle nesting sites is crucial for maintaining the biodiversity and environmental balance of the Puri–Konark coast. Strengthened conservation action and responsible eco-tourism are essential to preserve this unique coastal ecosystem.