Lions attacking humans in Gujarat not to be sent to zoo anymore

The Gujarat government has announced a new policy to relocate lions that attack humans to a designated enclosure at the Ambardi Safari Park in Amreli district, instead of keeping them at Sakkarbaug zoo in Junagadh. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Jaipal Singh revealed that around 10 such lions currently reside at Sakkarbaug zoo.

The new enclosure will replicate a natural habitat, allowing lions to roam freely and hunt their prey. The forest department has issued a tender to establish the enclosure in Dhari, aiming to complete the project within three months prior to World Lion Day. Ambardi Safari Park, encompassing 365 hectares, is a renowned wildlife tourism attraction in Gujarat, showcasing the state's natural environment and conserving various species, including Asiatic lions, leopards, and other wildlife.

Established in 2017, the park focuses on wildlife conservation, promoting ecological awareness, and boosting eco-tourism in Amreli district. In recent times, the state has experienced an increase in lion attacks in various locations, leading to the periodic relocation of wildlife to mitigate human-wildlife conflict, ensure animal welfare, maintain ecological balance, and secure the long-term conservation of species.