Dwarka/Sasan Gir, Jan 29 (NationPress) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel made a significant visit to the Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka and proceeded to Sasan Gir, where he conducted a thorough review of wildlife conservation strategies. During his visit, he engaged in a jungle safari and inaugurated vehicles designated for forest personnel.

At the Dwarkadhish Temple, Patel participated in prayers and rituals following traditional practices. Officials stated that the Chief Minister prayed for the happiness, peace, and prosperity of the state's residents while extending greetings to the devotees present.

The district administration honored him with a shawl and a miniature replica of the Dwarkadhish Temple. His visit was accompanied by notable figures such as former minister and MLA Mulubhai Bera, District Collector Rajesh Tanna, Superintendent of Police Jayrajsinh Vala, and other officials.

On the evening prior, Patel arrived in Sasan Gir and took a stroll through the local market, engaging with residents, tourists, and shopkeepers. He visited stalls featuring local products, including mango-based specialties from the Gir region and lion-themed handicrafts, while conversing with traders. Reports indicate that he also interacted with students and women, spending quality time with locals at a tea stall.

On Thursday morning, the Chief Minister embarked on a jungle safari in Gir National Park. Forest officials reported that he spotted Asiatic lions and other wildlife in their natural surroundings, visiting the Keramba Thana area where lions were seen in two distinct zones.

Recent estimates indicate that there are currently 891 Asiatic lions residing in Gir and surrounding lion habitats in Saurashtra.

After the safari, Patel flagged off 183 specially equipped vehicles at Sasan Gir for forest staff working across Gir and other forest regions of the state. These vehicles aim to enhance wildlife protection, conservation, rescue, and rehabilitation efforts.

The Forest Department announced that the fleet consists of 174 field motorcycles, six Bolero Camper vehicles, and three modified rescue vehicles, all intended for patrolling, protection duties, and rescue operations in forested areas. Officials noted that this allocation seeks to boost field mobility and operational efficiency, especially in remote and sensitive wildlife zones.

Throughout the tour, the Chief Minister also visited a Forest Department rescue center. Forest officials briefed him on conservation strategies being implemented under Project Lion, which provides a comprehensive framework for protecting and monitoring Asiatic lions and their habitats.

Officials shared that there are currently 13 designated routes operational for jungle safaris and wildlife observation in the Gir Safari Park and its surrounding areas.