Himachal’s Tsarap Chu: A New Sanctuary for High-Altitude Wildlife

In a significant move to protect high-altitude wildlife, the Himachal Pradesh government has declared Tsarap Chu in Lahaul-Spiti as India’s largest conservation reserve. Covering 1,700 square kilometers, this reserve is now a sanctuary for rare and endangered species such as snow leopards, Siberian ibex, Tibetan argali, Himalayan wolves, and bharal (blue sheep).

The official notification was issued under Section 36A(1) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, after consultations with local panchayats of Darcha and Losar. This fulfills a promise made by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu during Wildlife Week 2024 to enhance wildlife protection in the Trans-Himalayan region. Forest department officials explained that the area extends from the Yunam river and Chharap Nala confluence at 4,173 meters to the rugged state border with Ladakh, reaching altitudes above 5,900 meters. The region’s unique biodiversity and isolation have made it a crucial ecological corridor connecting Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandratal Sanctuary, and Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary in Ladakh.

Officials highlighted that the declaration of Tsarap Chu as a conservation reserve will help maintain genetic connectivity among species and support the long-term survival of elusive predators like the snow leopard. Additionally, the area has the potential to become an eco-tourism destination that balances conservation efforts with sustainable local livelihoods.

This new conservation reserve is a beacon of hope for preserving the rich biodiversity of the Trans-Himalayan region while providing opportunities for eco-tourism and supporting local communities.