Mada Forests: Location in Uttar Pradesh, India

Himalayan Foothill Forests of Northern India

The Mada Forests are located in Uttar Pradesh state, India, situated in the foothills of the Himalayas (Shivalik range).

Key Details

• Area: ~2,000 km²
• Forest Type: Subtropical moist deciduous / sal-dominated
• Dominant Species: Sal (Shorea robusta), teak, sandalwood, khair, semal
• Wildlife: Elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, deer, 250+ bird species

Ecological & Social Importance

• Watershed: Critical for regional rivers and groundwater recharge
• Corridor: Connects Himalayan ecosystems with Gangetic plains
• Livelihoods: NTFP collection (honey, medicinal plants), grazing, fuelwood
• Conservation: Part of Terai Arc Landscape initiative

Challenges

• Human-wildlife conflict (crop raiding, livestock predation)
• Illegal logging, poaching, encroachment
• Climate change altering species composition

These forests represent a vital ecological transition zone between the high Himalayas and the Indo-Gangetic Plain.