Bokaro Forest Division
About Districts
Bokaro district is located in the state of Jharkhand, India. It is known for its industrial significance, being home to the Bokaro Steel Plant, one of the largest steel manufacturing units in the country.
The district encompasses a rich cultural heritage and diverse natural landscapes. Bokaro district was created in the year 1991 by carrying out one subdivision consisting of two blocks from Dhanbad District and six blocks from Giridih Distirict. The present Bokaro district is bounded by Giridih in the North, Purulia (West Bengal) in the south, Dhanbad in the east and Hazaribagh in the west.
Geography and Physical Features
The topography is hilly with occasional tracts of flat plateau and valleys. The terrain is extremely varied and is spotted with several prominent hills. The district is a part of the Chhotanagpur Plateau and may be categorized into three natural formation:-
- (i) Central plateau.
- (ii)Lower plateau.
- (iii) Damodar, Garga & Tenughat Valley.
Damodar, Bokaro, Konar and Barakar are the main rivers traversing the territory. Barakar is a small river which flows into the Konar, a tributary of Damodar river.
The average altitude of the land is 210 metres from mean sea level. The district has maze of valleys and sub-valleys formed by the River Damodar and its tributaries. They form an important source of water for the industries and townships which have sprung up on its banks in the last few decades. Some hills and hillocks rise above the gentle valley making it a panoramic landscape to view.
The area has typical three distinct seasons, the summer, the rainy and the winter seasons of the monsoon type of climate. Hot weather is experienced all over the track during the months of mid April to June when the maximum temperature touches to 44-46 degree Celsius on few days. Pre-monsoon showers during late May or early June are common features. The winter is generally pleasant except for few days when the night temperature almost touches the freezing point.
Forest Area
Bokaro Forest Division which came into being in the year 1997 from the areas taken out from Dhanbad, Giridih and Hazaribagh East Forest Divisions. It comprises of six ranges namely Petarbar, Gomia, Tenughat, Bermo, Bokaro and Chas.
Forests of this division are spread over the eastern part of the Hazaribagh plateau and lie mainly on its undulating slopes. The topography is hilly with occasional tracts of flat plateau and valleys. : The forest area of Bokaro comprises a mix of vegetation types, including tropical dry deciduous forests, mixed forests, and scrub forests.
The dominant tree species include Sal (Shorearobusta), Mahua (Madhucalongifolia), Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon), Palash (Butea monosperma), and Bamboo (Bambusoideae). These species form the upper canopy and provide shade and habitat for a variety of plants and animals.
Wildlife
Over the past few decades, the forest's general composition has drastically changed. Increasing biotic demand on forest resources, developmental projects especially mining have all contributed to fragmentation of habitat, declines in forest quality, density, and botanical diversity. The same has also been negative impact on wild animals and their natural habitats.
The industrialisation of the woodlands and forest fires have both disrupted their tranquil existence. The reduction in the area for palatable grasses and shrinking of feed was brought on by the spread of undesired weeds. The decreasing number of wild animals is also a result of increasing competition for grazing pasture between domestic animals, the destruction of fruit-bearing trees, and a water shortage in the forested area.
The territories under Bokaro forest division are frequented by wild elephants every year causing loss of life and property. Other common wild animals like deer, sambhar, hyena, monkeys and a variety of birds, both resident and migratory, are found in the Division
Tourism
Bokaro Steel City, the headquarters of the Division is located in picturesque surroundings on the southern bank of river Damodar with Garga, one of its tributaries meandering along the southern and eastern out skirts of the city. On the north, the city is flanked by the high ranges of the Parasnath Hills and on the south just beyond the river Garga, it is enveloped by the Satanpur hillocks.
Bokaro offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and industrial attractions.
- (i) Natural Splendor: Bokaro boasts picturesque landscapes, including lush forests, hills, rivers, and scenic reservoirs like Garga Dam and Tenughat Dam.
- (ii)Jawaharlal Nehru Biological Park: This zoological park is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and numerous bird species. It provides an opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to observe and learn about native flora and fauna.
- (iii)Historical and Cultural Sites: Bokaro has several historical and cultural sites, such as Bokaro Steel Plant, showcasing the region's industrial prowess. Additionally, the city has ancient temples, including the Jagannath Temple and Aaiyappa Temple, which attract devotees and tourists.
- (iii)Tribal Heritage: Bokaro is surrounded by tribal villages inhabited by indigenous communities, offering a glimpse into their rich cultural heritage, traditional art forms, music, and dance. Visitors can interact with locals, participate in tribal festivals, and purchase handicrafts.
NTFP
Bokaroforest division is home to a variety of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) that contribute to the livelihoods of local communities. Some of the prominent MFP available in Bokaro include:Mahua (Madhucalongifolia), Kendu Leaves (Diospyros melanoxylon), Harra (Terminalia chebula), Chironji (Buchananialanzan), Tamarind (Tamarindusindica).
These MFPs not only provide livelihood opportunities for forest-dependent communities but also have cultural, medicinal, and economic significance. Sustainable harvesting and management of these resources are crucial for the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable development of the region.
