Orang National Park, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Assam, has emerged as a beacon of hope for wildlife conservation in India despite facing numerous challenges such as habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Situated on the northern bank of the Brahmaputra River in Assam’s Darrang and Sonitpur districts, Orang National Park is often referred to as ‘Mini Kaziranga.’ Like the famed Kaziranga National Park, it is home to a significant population of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros and shares a similar landscape.
Covering just 79.28 square kilometres, Orang is a vital hotspot for wildlife, home to iconic species like the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, and pygmy hog.
A Historical Overview
Originally inhabited by local tribes, the area that is now Orang National Park was abandoned in the early 1900s due to an epidemic. In 1915, British colonial authorities designated it as a game reserve for wildlife conservation and controlled hunting. Over the years, it evolved into a wildlife sanctuary, and in 1999, it was officially declared Orang National Park.
Located in an alluvial floodplain formed by the Pachnoi, Belsiri, and Dhansiri rivers joining the Brahmaputra, Orang’s geography makes it vulnerable to seasonal flooding. However, these conditions also support a wide range of flora and fauna, including 12 natural wetlands and 26 artificial water bodies.
The Wildlife of Orang
One of Orang’s greatest strengths is its impressive array of wildlife. The park is most famous for being the northernmost stronghold of the great Indian one-horned rhinoceros. According to 2022 figures, the park is home to around 125 rhinos, with numbers steadily increasing. Other large mammals, such as the Asiatic elephant, wild water buffalo, and hog deer, also thrive here.
A Haven for Endangered Species
The critically endangered pygmy hog, a tiny wild pig, was reintroduced into the park between 2011 and 2015 and has since begun to thrive. Other species like the Bengal porcupine, Indian pangolin, and jungle cat also inhabit Orang, showcasing its rich biodiversity.
Bengal Tiger: A Conservation Priority
Perhaps the most iconic species in Orang National Park is the Bengal tiger. While the park’s tiger population has declined over the years, efforts to protect and monitor these elusive big cats are at the forefront of conservation work. Estimates suggest that around 26 tigers currently inhabit the park as of July 2023.
To address threats like habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict, a unique conservation programme has been launched. Supported by global organisations such as the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and Busch Gardens, this initiative employs advanced technology, including camera traps and geo-spatial monitoring, to track tiger movements and behaviours. Additionally, a community-driven approach engages locals, who have coexisted with the tigers for generations, in managing human-tiger conflict.
The success of this programme is crucial, not only for the future of tigers in Orang but also for global biodiversity. With around 4,500 Bengal tigers left in the wild, mostly in India, every successful conservation effort counts.
A Bird and Biodiversity Paradise
Orang National Park is not just a sanctuary for mammals but also a vital habitat for over 50 species of fish and a variety of migratory birds. Among these are rare and endangered species, making Orang an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) as designated by BirdLife International. The park’s wetlands play a crucial role in supporting waterfowl and predatory birds, further enhancing its ecological importance.
Summing Up
Orang National Park may be small compared to some of India’s more famous wildlife sanctuaries, but its rich biodiversity and critical conservation efforts make it a jewel of Assam’s natural heritage. Whether it’s safeguarding the majestic one-horned rhinoceros, supporting endangered species like the pygmy hog, or conserving the elusive Bengal tiger, Orang exemplifies the resilience and importance of India’s lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries. As a true ‘Mini Kaziranga,’ Orang National Park continues to be a vital stronghold for wildlife conservation in the country.