A site exclusively meant for leopards, for its protection, may come up near Mandvi in Surat.
Sources said that the state government is interested in developing a Leopard Rescue Centre in south Gujarat which will be the first of its kind in the state.
The brainchild of Jagdish Parekh, an environmentalist and activist working to save leopards, this project has identified 250 sq km area near Jetpur-Kevdi eco-tourism centre with the help of forest department. Thick woods in addition to ample water resources and low human habitat make this place an ideal spot for the site which is located between Mandvi and Umarpada in the diamond city.
“Leopards caught from human settlements will be released in this centre, which will be a perfect habitat for them. No other schedule-I animals will be kept at the centre. This will help in preserving this large animal from the cat family and help maintain wildlife habitat,” Jagdish Patel, said.
More than 200 leopards enter human settlements in search of food in this region on a regular basis. If the centre is developed, clashes between leopard and humans can be averted.
Patel has forwarded his project to state government and the forest department. The state administration is interested in it and is considering its feasibility.
He has further claimed that chief minister Narendra Modi has asked the concerned department to check viability of the project and go ahead with it once a positive report is submitted.
Sources in forest department in Mandvi said that the state government wants to develop the spot on the lines of Sasan Gir. They want to term it as an exclusive sanctuary for leopards.
“The leopard rescue centre project is very much viable at the site. We have learnt that state government is also impressed with the project of saving the endangered species. However, the project is yet to receive official permission,” said RFO DL Rajput.
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