Pune, India: The Forest Department has taken decisive action to address the growing concern of wildlife casualties on the Pune-Nashik Highway by identifying leopard crossing hotspots and installing signage along the route. Initiated in December, this endeavor has already seen the placement of three signs in Narayangaon, with plans for additional signage in the coming days.
The demand for safe passage for wild animals crossing highways has been a longstanding issue, and recent incidents have underscored the urgency of finding effective solutions. A tragic incident on December 17 saw a male leopard, estimated to be between eight and nine years old, losing its life in a car crash near Narayangaon. Reports of fatalities involving wolves and hyenas on the Pune-Nashik Highway have also raised concerns among wildlife conservationists.
According to a forest official from Junnar, the identification of specific hotspot areas led to the installation of signage at those locations. The strategically placed signs designate wildlife crossing zones and advise drivers to exercise caution and reduce speed. The Forest Department plans to extend this initiative to cover additional locations along the Pune-Nashik Highway to further enhance safety measures.
The region along the highway is characterized by vast farmlands, primarily dedicated to sugarcane cultivation. Additionally, the presence of the Meena River and the Dimbhe Dam Canal creates a conducive environment for wild animals, making it their habitat. The animals often venture out in search of food during the evening, night, or early morning hours, making them vulnerable to accidents.
Highlighting the need for collaboration between different departments, a senior forest official emphasized that the forest department is frequently overlooked in the planning of such projects. He stressed the importance of involving the forest department in discussions when infrastructure projects are being developed to ensure comprehensive planning that considers wildlife conservation.
As the Forest Department takes proactive steps to safeguard wildlife on the Pune-Nashik Highway, it remains crucial for authorities to collaborate and integrate wildlife conservation measures into future infrastructure projects.
