World Lion Day: Gujarat to set up 100-hectare enclosure at Ambardi for lions involved in human attacks
Gandhinagar, August 9
On the eve of World Lion Day, the Gujarat Forest Department on Sunday announced the creation of a specialised 100-hectare enclosure at Ambardi Safari Park to house Asiatic lions involved in human attacks.
According to a press release issued by the Chief Minister's Office, the Forest Department of the Government of Gujarat has decided to keep lions involved in human attacks in a specially designated enclosure. The Forest Department has initiated work to create a special enclosure spread across 100 hectares at Ambardi Safari Park. Lions involved in human attacks will be kept in this enclosure within their natural habitat.
As per the release, this Park is a reserved forest area of the Gir Protected Area located in Dhari of Amreli district. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the State Government has effectively implemented various schemes and projects for lion conservation and protection.
World Lion Day is observed on 10 August to raise awareness about the safety and conservation of lions.
Jaipal Singh, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, stated, "Lions involved in human attacks will be kept in a suitable environment by fencing a designated area at Ambardi Safari Park. Necessary instructions have been issued for this work, and the required work has been initiated."
To reduce human-wildlife conflict, provide safe habitats for animals, maintain ecological balance and ensure the long-term conservation of species, the Forest Department periodically undertakes scientific relocation of wildlife.
There are generally several reasons behind the relocation of wild animals as mentioned in the release. When an animal enters a village or populated area, it is safely captured and released back into the forest. In addition, relocation is carried out for the treatment of injured or sick animals, population management and providing suitable habitat. In the case of lions and leopards, they often stray into farms or residential areas, and are therefore captured and released into safe sanctuary or forest areas. In the case of crocodiles, when they are found near human settlements around lakes or riverbanks, they are shifted to safe water bodies.
Located near Dhari in Amreli district, Ambardi Safari Park is an important wildlife tourism destination in Gujarat. Spread across approximately 365 hectares, the park offers visitors an experience of Gir's natural environment. Along with Asiatic lions, leopards, chital, nilgai, chinkara, peacocks and various species of birds are also conserved here.
Established in 2017, Ambardi Safari Park has been developed with the objective of promoting wildlife conservation and increasing awareness about nature. With modern safari facilities, a lush natural environment and the opportunity to experience Gir's wildlife up close, the park attracts a large number of tourists every year. Along with promoting local employment, the park is also making an important contribution to the development of eco-tourism in Amreli district. Ambardi Safari Park has emerged as a major attraction for tourists interested in wildlife.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm all for wildlife conservation, but 100 hectares feels like a prison for these majestic beasts. Lions are meant to roam free. Why not invest more in better fencing around villages, solar-powered lights, and compensation for farmers who lose livestock? That would reduce conflicts without locking up our national pride. 🤔
As someone who's visited Ambardi Safari Park, this is actually a beautiful location. The lions there have plenty of space and natural vegetation. Kudos to the Gujarat government for thinking about both human safety and animal welfare. It's not an easy balance, but this seems like a practical middle ground. 👏
Interesting approach. I've seen similar "problem animal" enclosures in Africa and they work reasonably well. The key is ensuring the enclosure mimics natural habitat closely enough that the animals don't suffer stress-related health issues. I hope Gujarat's forest officials include wildlife biologists in monitoring these lions' well-being long-term.
My Nani (grandmother) lives near Amreli and she was telling me how a lion attacked a farmer's buffalo last month. It's heartbreaking on both sides. This is a thoughtful solution. Also great for eco-tourism — more visitors to Ambardi means more jobs for locals. Good for wildlife, good for people! 🌿🦁
While I appreciate the effort, I have a concern. These "conflict lions" are often the strongest and most adaptable ones. By isolating them, are we inadvertently removing the strongest genetics from the wild population? I hope the department has a long-term plan for genetic diversity and eventual reintroduction if possible. Otherwise,
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