Kuno Cheetahs Set to Roam in Rajasthan Through New Wildlife Corridor
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Synopsis
The establishment of a new wildlife corridor will allow cheetahs from Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh to migrate into Rajasthan. This initiative is confirmed by Forest Minister Sanjay Sharma and aims to enhance the natural habitat for these big cats. Both state governments will oversee the project, promoting better conservation efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Cheetahs from Kuno National Park to move to Rajasthan.
- New wildlife corridor to support animal migration.
- MoU to be signed by Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
- Corridor covers approximately 6,500 square km.
- Project aims to enhance conservation efforts.
Jaipur, Feb 6 (NationPress) Cheetahs from Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park will soon have the opportunity to traverse into Rajasthan, as a new wildlife corridor is being established, as confirmed by state Forest Minister Sanjay Sharma to IANS.
"A corridor will be developed to link Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, enabling the free movement of tigers and cheetahs between the two states. This will allow the cheetahs from Kuno to naturally enter Rajasthan," Sharma stated.
The project will be co-monitored by both state governments, with a memorandum of understanding (MoU) expected to be signed shortly in the presence of Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav.
The corridor, covering approximately 6,500 square km, will extend from Dholpur to Sita Mata Wildlife Sanctuary, providing a more natural habitat for these majestic big cats.
India's ambitious cheetah reintroduction program witnessed the arrival of eight cheetahs from Namibia, which were released into Kuno National Park by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 17, 2022, marking the species' return to the country.
In addition, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav introduced five more cheetahs into the wild at Kuno on Wednesday. Among them was Veera, a female cheetah who recently gave birth to two cubs on February 4. Other released cheetahs included Asha and her three cubs. Furthermore, two cheetahs, Agni and Vayu, have been roaming freely since their release on International Cheetah Day, December 4, 2024.
Officials have indicated that Rajasthan was initially considered as a relocation site for the cheetahs, but logistical issues caused a shift to Madhya Pradesh. Nonetheless, the newly proposed corridor will simplify movement for these animals, minimizing tracking efforts as they frequently cross state lines.
This corridor is anticipated to be beneficial for both the cheetahs and wildlife authorities, providing a smoother and safer habitat for the species, officials stated.
