In a remarkable transformation, Chhattisgarh’s Kanger Valley National Park, once a stronghold of Maoist insurgents, has been included in UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites. This marks the first time a site from Chhattisgarh has achieved such recognition.
Located in the Bastar district, the 200-square-kilometer park is renowned for its lush green valleys, deep ravines, and enchanting waterfalls like the 150-foot-high Tirathgarh Falls. The Kanger River, with its pristine waters and unique rocky formations, adds to the park’s allure.
The park’s rich biodiversity includes over 15 limestone caves such as Kotamsar, Kailash, and Dandak, which are geological wonders with archaeological significance. It is home to rare species like otters, mouse deer, giant squirrels, and the Lethis softshell turtle, alongside wild wolves. Bird enthusiasts can observe over 200 bird species, and the park boasts a diverse flora with more than 900 plant species.
Historically, Kanger Valley was a hotspot for Left-Wing Extremism, witnessing some of the deadliest Maoist violence. However, intensive security operations have reclaimed the area, paving the way for conservation and tourism initiatives.
The inclusion in UNESCO’s Tentative List is expected to boost tourism, providing global recognition to the park’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. For the indigenous tribes residing in the valley, the forest is integral to their culture and livelihood, and this recognition underscores the importance of preserving their ancestral lands.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai lauded the efforts leading to this achievement, emphasizing the state’s commitment to preserving its rich natural heritage.
As Kanger Valley National Park steps into the global spotlight, it symbolizes the resilience of nature and communities, transforming from a conflict zone to a beacon of ecological and cultural significance.
