Why in news?
The Bura‑Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam is often discussed in current‑affairs circles because of its ecological significance and its association with conservation issues in the Brahmaputra floodplains.
Background and geography
Bura‑Chapori lies on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River in the Sonitpur district of Assam. The area was declared a reserved forest in 1974 and upgraded to a wildlife sanctuary in 1995 to protect its diverse flora and fauna. Together with the adjoining Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary, it forms part of a unified ecosystem spanning wet alluvial grasslands, riparian forests and semi‑evergreen woodland. The sanctuary covers approximately 44.06 square kilometres and experiences a humid subtropical climate with heavy monsoon rainfall.
Flora and fauna
- Grasslands and forests: Around 60 % of the sanctuary consists of tall floodplain grasslands interspersed with riparian and semi‑evergreen forests. These habitats support medicinal and commercially important plant species.
- Flagship species: Bura‑Chapori is known for the Bengal Florican, a critically endangered bustard that requires undisturbed grasslands. The sanctuary also provides habitat for the Indian one‑horned rhinoceros, tigers, leopards, wild buffalo, hog deer, wild pigs and occasional elephants.
- Avifauna: Resident birds include the black‑necked stork, lesser adjutant, mallard, openbill stork, teal and whistling duck. Migratory species such as ferruginous ducks visit during winter.
- Reptiles and fishes: The sanctuary’s wetlands harbour various reptiles and a rich diversity of fish, reflecting its floodplain ecology.
Tourism and accessibility
The best time to visit is between November and March when the weather is pleasant and migratory birds are present. The sanctuary is about 25 km from Tezpur Airport and 30 km from Bhalukpong Railway Station. It is reachable by road from Tezpur, Nagaon and Guwahati. Visitors are advised to coordinate with sanctuary authorities for safari tours, accommodation and entry formalities.
Significance
Bura‑Chapori forms an important corridor for wildlife along the Brahmaputra and showcases the interplay between riverine ecosystems and grassland biodiversity. Protecting such areas helps conserve endangered species and supports sustainable ecotourism in northeast India.
Sources: SA
