Gharials

Why in news?

• The Mahanadi Wildlife Division in Odisha announced June 10 a cash reward of Rs 1,000 for rescuing gharials, a critically endangered crocodile species, and informing wildlife personnel.

About Gharials:

• Gharials are a type of Asian crocodilian distinguished by their long, thin snouts.
• They live in clear freshwater river systems.
• Once found from Pakistan to Myanmar, the reptile's range has shrunk to two countries:
  • India: along the Chambal, Girwa and Son Rivers
  • Nepal: along the Narayani River
• The IUCN classifies the species as critically endangered. The Indian government has granted the species full protection by listing it in Schedule I of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• National Chambal Sanctuary along the river Chambal in Madhya Pradesh is the longest protected area of the species.

Mahanadi River

• The Mahanadi is a major river in East Central India.
• It drains an area of around 141,600 square kilometres and has a total course of 858 kilometres.
• Mahanadi is also known for the Hirakud Dam.
• Seonath, Mand, Hasdeo and Ong are some of the main tributaries of the river

Prelims Question:

Consider the following statements regarding Gharials:
1.They are endemic to the Indian Subcontinent.
2.They are classified as Critically endangered in the IUCN list
Choose the correct statements from the codes given below:
(a)1 only
(b)2 only
(c)Both 1 and 2
(d)Neither 1 nor 2

Answer to Prelims question