Pune, India – In a significant development for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists, the Maharashtra state cabinet granted approval on Monday for the much-anticipated leopard safari project in Ambe Gavhan village, Junnar. With an allocated budget of Rs 80.43 crore, the project aims to enhance tourism while addressing the increasing incidents of leopard-human conflicts in the region.
The ambitious project, which received initial approval during the BJP-Shiv Sena government, had faced uncertainty under the Maha Vikas Aghadi government, leading to relocation considerations. However, with the recent return of the BJP to power, the leopard safari initiative has been reinstated in Junnar, accompanied by substantial budget provisions.
The proposed safari will utilize 50 hectares of land, with 30 hectares dedicated to the safari experience and an additional 20 hectares for ancillary facilities, including veterinary services and ticketing. The enclosed area will house a total of 16 leopards, with dedicated day and night shelters to ensure the well-being of the animals. The safari is slated to be operational for eight months, excluding the monsoon season.
Forest officials anticipate commencing work once they secure approval from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) for the detailed project report. The funds, earmarked for the project, will be utilized for constructing essential infrastructure, including roads, caves, safety walls, and entry gates.
The Junnar forest division, which currently hosts around 400 leopards, has witnessed a surge in leopard attacks over the past five years, spanning four tehsils – Junnar, Ambegaon, Shirur, and Khed. The leopard safari project is viewed as a proactive measure to manage the rising conflicts and simultaneously boost wildlife tourism in the region.
With the CZA approval expected in the coming months, the project’s completion is anticipated within a year, with plans to open it to the public in 2025. The Junnar leopard safari project aligns with broader conservation efforts and aims to create a harmonious balance between wildlife preservation and responsible tourism.
