Hey there, folks of Pune! It seems like the leopard population in the Pune District is on the rise, causing some concerns for the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre. With no available land for a new centre, the proposal is being delayed, leading to more leopard sightings in urban areas and an increase in attacks.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has stepped in to address the issue, directing the Maharashtra State Government to expedite the process of establishing a new Leopard Rescue Centre. He also suggested that any extra leopards beyond capacity should be relocated to Vantara in Jamnagar, run by the Reliance Group, or other similar centres.
Currently, the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre can only accommodate 40 leopards, leaving injured or disabled leopards with limited options. Recent sightings in Ambegaon and Junnar talukas have left residents on edge, with some villages in Junnar Taluka even being designated as ‘Potential Leopard Disaster-Prone Areas.’
At a recent District Planning Committee (DPC) meeting, Junnar MLA Atul Benake raised concerns about the stalled new Leopard Rescue Centre proposals. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar emphasized the importance of following regulations and potentially sending leopards to Vantara in Jamnagar until a solution is found.
With over 600 leopards in Ambegaon and Junnar talukas, the need for more Leopard Rescue Centres in these areas is evident. The Forest Department has proposed new centres, but the delay in acquiring land from the Water Resources Department is hindering progress. The lack of new rescue centres is leading to more leopard-human encounters and subsequent attacks.
Stay safe out there, Pune residents, and keep an eye out for our spotted feline friends roaming around your neighborhoods!
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