The Gujarat government today announced several stringent safety regulations for the Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary area in Junagadh to ensure the safety of pilgrims and minimise human-wildlife conflict.
The decision follows a high-level review meeting chaired by Forest and Environment Minister Arjunbhai Modhwadia in the wake of a recent tragic incident where an 11-year-old boy lost his life in a lion attack near the Girnar steps.
Briefing the media in Gandhinagar, Mr. Modhwadia stated that permanent checkposts will be constructed at highly sensitive spots with frequent wildlife movement to ensure continuous monitoring. A comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) focusing on pilgrim safety, wildlife management, and emergency response will be prepared under the chairmanship of the Junagadh District Collector.
To prevent unnecessary disturbance to wild animals, the Girnar and Datar steps routes will be declared as ‘Silence Zones’. Additionally, 25 permanent trackers from the Forest Department will be deployed along the mountain route to maintain a constant vigil, and thermal drone surveillance will be introduced to track wildlife movement.
The Minister also highlighted that a widespread public awareness campaign will be launched to educate locals and pilgrims on safety guidelines and proper conduct within wildlife areas.
