Keoladeo Ghana National Park, formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, started its journey as a protected area in the early 20th century. The initial steps toward conservation and protection were taken by the Maharaja of Bharatpur who, recognizing the ecological importance of the region, declared it a duck-hunting reserve.
The process of establishing the sanctuary and subsequently upgrading it to a national park unfolded over several years:
Early 1900s: The area was developed into a waterfowl hunting ground by the rulers of Bharatpur. The creation of artificial lakes and marshes attracted a large number of migratory birds.
1956: The need to protect the rich avifauna of the region became apparent, and on 13 March 1956, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary was officially declared a protected area.
1982: The sanctuary was later upgraded to the status of a national park in 1982, and it was renamed Keoladeo Ghana National Park. This change reflected the park's broader focus on conservation beyond being solely a bird sanctuary.
The park was established to safeguard the diverse bird species, particularly migratory birds, that visit the region. The efforts to establish and maintain the park involved balancing the needs of conservation with the historical and cultural context of the area.
Keoladeo Ghana National Park has since become a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Ramsar Wetland site, underscoring its international significance for biodiversity and wetland conservation. It remains a popular destination for birdwatchers, naturalists, and tourists interested in experiencing the beauty of its diverse avian population and the surrounding ecosystems.
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