Which animals does the National Chambal Sanctuary protect?

The National Chambal Sanctuary, which is administered jointly by the states of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, was established to protect several vulnerable and endangered species.1

The sanctuary is primarily known for the conservation of the following animals:

• Ganges river dolphins (Platanista gangetica)1
• Gavials (also known as gharials), which are large, crocodile-like reptiles12
• Crocodiles1
• Red-crowned roofed turtles (Batagur kachuga)3
• Various large terrestrial animals1

The sanctuary serves as a critical habitat for these species, particularly for the gharial, which maintains its largest population within this protected area. Protecting these animals is essential to preserving the biodiversity of the Ganges river system and ensuring the survival of species threatened by habitat loss and pollution.23