ISSN : 2663-2187

Vegetational and Remote Sensing Analysis of a Sacred Grove from Sub-Mountainous Region of Punjab, INDIA

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Gurharminder Singh, Vartika Singh , Neelima Jerath
ยป doi: 10.33472/AFJBS.6.6.2024.5283-5303

Abstract

The Charpat Bani Sacred Grove, located in the village of Kataru Chak, District Pathankot, Punjab is a treasure trove of biodiversity, harboring 87 floral species of Trees, Shrubs, Herbs & Grasses belonging to 44 families and providing an vital habitat to variety of faunal species. The sacred grove was extensively studied for its ecological, religious & cultural significance and conservation challenges. The sacred grove is particularly abundant with naturally occurring species such as Putranjiva roxburghii, Ficus racemosa, Mallotus philippensis, Murraya koenigii, and Murraya paniculata. The other species like Artocarpus lakoocha, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Butea monosperma, Callicarpa macrophylla, Coccinia cordifolia, Shorea robusta, Terminalia chebula, Vallaris heynei, Ziziphus mauritiana, Ziziphus nummularia, etc. are also quite endemic to the grove and very rarely found in the surrounding agricultural areas. Remote sensing analysis of the site from 1991 to 2023 by preparing Land Use Land Cover (LULC) and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) maps using Landsat data, revealed a predominance of dense vegetation cover within the grove, confirming its rich biodiversity and the effectiveness of community-driven conservation efforts. However, a significant increase in the built-up area within the sacred grove over the past 32 years has emerged as a major conservation challenge. The grove is promising site for eco-education and meditation, offering unique opportunities for biodiversity research, education and community engagement. The study emphasizes for need to prepare a comprehensive management plan of sacred grove involving all stakeholders and advocates for adopting principle of Nature-Based Solutions for minimal expansion of built-up area, if needed. It further recommends for designating the site as a Biodiversity Heritage Site under the Indian Biological Diversity (Amendment) Act, 2023, to secure formal recognition and protection. Through concerted efforts and scientific management practices, Charpat Bani sacred grove can serve as a model for conservation of other sacred groves of state of Punjab.

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