Gandhinagar/Amreli, Aug 9 (IANS) The Gujarat Forest Department has begun work on a 100-hectare special enclosure at Ambardi Safari Park in Amreli district to house lions involved in human attacks, in a move aimed at managing human-wildlife conflict while keeping the animals in a natural habitat.
The enclosure will be created within Ambardi Safari Park, a reserved forest area of the Gir Protected Area near Dhari.
Lions identified as being involved in attacks on humans will be kept in the designated area after being relocated from areas where they pose a risk to people.
Dr Jaipal Singh, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, said: “Lions involved in human attacks will be kept in a suitable environment by fencing a designated area at Ambardi Safari Park. Necessary instructions have been issued for this work, and the required work has been initiated.”
The decision comes ahead of ‘World Lion Day’ on August 10, which is observed to raise awareness about lion conservation and protection.
The state government said various schemes and projects for the conservation and protection of Asiatic lions have been implemented under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
The Forest Department undertakes scientific relocation of wildlife as part of efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict, provide safe habitats, maintain ecological balance and support the long-term conservation of wildlife species.
Wild animals that enter villages or other populated areas are generally captured safely and released in suitable forest areas.
Relocation may also be undertaken when animals require treatment for injuries or illness, for population management or when they need to be moved to a more suitable habitat.
Lions and leopards that stray into agricultural fields or residential areas may be captured and relocated to a safe sanctuary or forest areas.
Similarly, crocodiles found close to human settlements around lakes and riverbanks can be relocated to suitable safe water bodies.
Ambardi Safari Park, located near Dhari in Amreli district, is spread across around 365 hectares and has developed as a wildlife tourism destination.
The park provides visitors an opportunity to experience the natural environment of the Gir region, and is home to Asiatic lions as well as leopards, chital, nilgai, chinkara, peafowl and several species of birds.
Established in 2017, the safari park was developed with the objectives of wildlife conservation and increasing awareness about nature. Its safari facilities and natural surroundings have made it an attraction for visitors interested in Gir’s wildlife.
The park has also contributed to local employment and the development of eco-tourism in Amreli district.
The proposed 100-hectare enclosure will form a separate designated area within the larger safari park for lions involved in human attacks.
–IANS
mys/sd/
