Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav will release two cheetahs into the Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary in Mandsaur district on Sunday. The “Cheetah Project” is one of Madhya Pradesh’s ambitious initiatives to increase the cheetah population in India and conserve the species. Under this project, apart from Kuno National Park, a new habitat is being established in the Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary.
Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary will become the second site in the state to host cheetahs. This step is expected to be a milestone in wildlife conservation and a point of great interest for wildlife enthusiasts and domestic & international tourists.
The Chambal River passes through the sanctuary dividing it into two parts. The western part is in Nimach district and eastern part is in Mandsaur district. It is in the Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion.
Gandhi Sagar wildlife sanctuary is located in eastern Madhya Pradesh, around Mandsaur and Neemuch districts. The sanctuary is home to trees like Salai, Kardhai, Dhauda, Tendu, and Palash. It includes the world-renowned Chaturbhuj Nala and also features the Rock Shelter site. The sanctuary was initially notified in 1974 and officially declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1984.
The sanctuary is spread around the backwaters of Gandhi Sagar and is known for rare species like wild dogs, chinkara, leopards, otters, and crocodiles. Additionally, animals like spotted deer, sambar, and grey langurs are also found here.
Places of religious and archaeological importance
In addition to its flora and fauns there are places of great religious and archaeological importance in and near Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary.
Its archaeological and religious significance is enriched by the presence of ancient rock art sites and the famous Chaturbhujnath Temple.
Chaturbhujnath temple, dedicated to Vishnu, is located about 8 km from Gandhi sagar dam site.
Hinglajgarh or Hinglaj Fort is an ancient fort situated near village Navali in Bhanpura tehsil of Mandsaur.
Taxakeshwar temple or Takhaji is a place of religious and historical importance in Mandsaur district.