Sanjay Gandhi National Park to Launch Leopard Safari Soon: Minister Ashish Shelar
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Synopsis
On January 31, Mumbai's Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar announced the upcoming Leopard Safari at Sanjay Gandhi National Park. This initiative includes the adoption of two lions and aims to enhance tourism and provide a unique wildlife experience.
Key Takeaways
- Leopard Safari to be initiated at SGNP.
- Minister Ashish Shelar adopts two lions.
- Estimated cost for the project is Rs 5 crore.
- Expected increase in tourism with 20 lakh annual visitors.
- Insurance coverage mandated for 400 workers.
Mumbai, Jan 31 (NationPress) The Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister and state IT and Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar announced on Friday the commencement of a ‘Leopard Safari’ at the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) located in Borivali, north Mumbai.
In a significant conservation move, he has also taken the initiative to adopt two lions – ‘Bharat and Bharati’ for a year, personally overseeing their care.
During his visit to SGNP on Friday, Shelar evaluated the park, accompanied by suburban district collector Rajendra Kshirsagar, chief conservator Mallikarjuna G., deputy director Revati Kulkarni, assistant forest officer Sudhir Sonawane, chief security officer Yogesh Mahajan, and other relevant officials.
“Currently, SGNP features tiger and lion safaris. Leopard cubs discovered across various regions of Maharashtra are brought here for nurturing. However, tourists are not able to see leopards in their natural environment. Approximately 30 hectares of land will be necessary for this endeavor and it is available. The Leopard Safari aims to provide visitors with an exceptional wildlife experience while maintaining a secure and enriched habitat for the rescued leopards and their cubs rehabilitated in this park. This initiative will not only elevate tourism but will also increase revenue,” stated a release from the minister’s office.
Officials estimate the project cost at Rs 5 crore. Annually, 20 lakh tourists visit this national park. The introduction of the Leopard Safari is expected to raise tourist numbers, consequently boosting park revenues, as conveyed by chief conservator Mallikarjuna G., who presented detailed insights to the minister.
Shelar has directed to promptly commence the Leopard Safari process, with funding to be collaboratively sourced from the forest department and the district planning committee. He also instructed the district collector to accelerate the proposal for prompt implementation.
In another initiative, Shelar announced his adoption of two three-year-old cubs – ‘Bharat and Bharati’ which were relocated to SGNP from Gujarat on Republic Day. The minister will personally cover all expenses related to their care and welfare.
In a related matter, the minister instructed SGNP officials to provide 400 workers immediate insurance coverage for their safety. He assured that necessary budgetary provisions for their insurance will be allocated promptly. These workers face extreme weather conditions and are in direct contact with wildlife, most of whom are tribal individuals. Additionally, a team of 11 workers is dedicated to safeguarding both wildlife and human settlements.
