Forest Department enhances lion security in Gir during Diwali, launches mega patrolling

During the Diwali festivals and vacations, heavy crowds of tourists flock to the forests of Gir. During this period, some antisocial elements illegally conduct 'lion shows' by feeding or luring the lions. According to a report by Sandesh, the Gir East Forest Division has declared a high alert and commenced intensive patrolling to curb such activities.

Special arrangements have been made by the administrative machinery to ensure the security of wildlife. For this purpose, a Special Task Force has been constituted by the Gir East Division, which will keep a watch on illegal activities. Additionally, teams from various ranges have been activated, and blockades and patrolling have been carried out across the entire forest area. Forest officials are continuously checking suspicious movements and vehicles in sensitive areas.

The Forest Department has issued a stern warning that action will be taken against any person who disturbs the natural habitat of lions or other wildlife.

The Asiatic lion is a subspecies of Panthera leo leo. The living population of these lions is limited only to the state of Gujarat in India. It is placed in the endangered category in the IUCN Red List, is included in CITES Appendix I, and is legally protected in India.