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Context

Forest fires that had erupted in several parts of Mizoram’s Phawngpui National Park have affected nearly one-ninth of the park’s total area, state forest officials said. They, however, ruled out the possibility of a larger wildfire.

Geography

Situated in the Lawngtlai district of southeastern Mizoram near the India-Myanmar border.

It is also known as the Blue Mountain National Park.

Covers approximately 50 square kilometers.

Ranges from 1,000 meters to 2,157 meters above sea level with Phawngpui Peak being the highest point in Mizoram.

Characterized by steep cliffs, deep gorges and a semi-circular cliff known as Thlazuang Khâm. 

It overlooks the Chhimtuipui River and the hill ranges of Myanmar.

Mild throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 29°C and an average annual rainfall of about 3000 mm.

Flora

Phawngpui supports a wide variety of vegetation including

Several species of rhododendrons and orchids.

Trees like oak, Bauhinia variegata and Pinus kesiya.

Rare bamboo groves and unique flowering plants such as solitary Daphnia and local varieties of basil. 

Fauna

Birds

Over 300 species recorded. Notable ones include

Blyth's Tragopan

Mrs. Hume's Pheasant (State bird of Mizoram)

Sunbirds, peregrine falcon, oriental pied hornbill, grey sibia

Mammals

Includes endangered and vulnerable species such as

Clouded leopard, slow loris, stump-tailed macaque, capped langur

Tiger, leopard, leopard cat

Goral, serow, Asiatic black bear

Cultural Significance

The name Phawngpui means Great Meadow in the local Lai dialect.

The mountain is considered sacred and is central to local myths and folklore about deities and spirits.

Conservation and Tourism

National Park Status declared in 1992 under IUCN Category II.

Activities such as trekking, camping, and bird-watching are promoted in designated areas e.g. Farpak glade.

Sources:

HINDUSTANTIMES