29-01-2009
11-member task force to curb lion poaching
Times of India By Himanshu Kaushik
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Ahmedabad/11-member_task_for ce_to_curb_ lion _poaching/articleshow/4044128.cms
Ahmedabad : Anxious about the poaching going on in and around Gir sanctuary, state forest department has decided to form a task force to tackle the illegal activity.
In March and April 2007, eight lions were poached in Babariya range in Una taluka, Bhavnagar district. Six lions were poached on March 3 and March 29, while two carcasses were recovered from Bhanderiya village near Jesar in the same district. Five more lions were killed after a farmer passed electric current to save his standing crop.
Officials said the Greater Gir Protection Task Force' would be a 11-member team headed by deputy conservator of forests, (DCF). The first DCF to head the team would be GA Mistry. It would consist of four range forest officers and six foresters.
A similar task force is being formed for Jim Corbett National Park in Uttaranchal. However, the rapid action team on the prowl for tiger poachers will have rangers, ex-army jawans and forest volunteers.
Gujarat team would also keep a check on animals that stray into human settlements on the park's edges. It would also tackle the jungle mafia smuggling forest produce.
The task force is similar to one in a Zambian national park where poaching had reached alarming proportions five years ago. With this force in place, hopes have risen that poaching incidents will become rare.
The force will be formed and start taking action soon. Officials said it would have power to act as per wildlife protection Act, Indian penal code and criminal procedure code.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Cattle Killing by Lions
31-01-2009
Cattle Killing by Lions
All News Paper
Print Edition
A pride of about five lions was roaming in Akala and Chokli villages two days back and was brought back to Girnar forest by department after hard efforts. It also had attached 3 people there and killed few domestic cattle. Same pride has now turned towards Bhesan area people have informed forest-dept. to take them back to jungle. (Divya Bhaskar 26-01-2009)
There are about 35 lions residing in Savarkundla area (part of Greater Gir). On Republic Day night, pride of seven lions killed a cow at Nirmalbhai Khumar's farm at Jabad village in Sawarkundla range in Gir East. Later they killed 10 goats-sheeps at Hathsani village nearby and two bullocks-one calf. (Divya Bhaskar 28-01-2009)
Cattle Killing by Lions
All News Paper
Print Edition
A pride of about five lions was roaming in Akala and Chokli villages two days back and was brought back to Girnar forest by department after hard efforts. It also had attached 3 people there and killed few domestic cattle. Same pride has now turned towards Bhesan area people have informed forest-dept. to take them back to jungle. (Divya Bhaskar 26-01-2009)
There are about 35 lions residing in Savarkundla area (part of Greater Gir). On Republic Day night, pride of seven lions killed a cow at Nirmalbhai Khumar's farm at Jabad village in Sawarkundla range in Gir East. Later they killed 10 goats-sheeps at Hathsani village nearby and two bullocks-one calf. (Divya Bhaskar 28-01-2009)
Lion attacks a farmer
31-01-2009
Lion attacks a farmer
Gujarat Samachar
Briefly translated from Gujarati
In one more male lion conflict incidence, a lion attacked a farmer (Bhikha Raghav-50 yrs) when he was returning from his farm. The incidence place at Jambuda village in Visavadar Taluka in Gir West.
Lion attacks a farmer
Gujarat Samachar
Briefly translated from Gujarati
In one more male lion conflict incidence, a lion attacked a farmer (Bhikha Raghav-50 yrs) when he was returning from his farm. The incidence place at Jambuda village in Visavadar Taluka in Gir West.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Leopard trapped in Dhari
28-01-2009
Leopard trapped in Dhari
Times of India
A leopard which had been scaring villagers of the region with its game of hide and seek, and even got into houses often in Mithapur village was trapped by forest officials on Sunday night. "It walked into the cage set up in Chanchiya paaniya range," said a forest official. After medical check-up, it will be released into jungles.
Leopard trapped in Dhari
Times of India
A leopard which had been scaring villagers of the region with its game of hide and seek, and even got into houses often in Mithapur village was trapped by forest officials on Sunday night. "It walked into the cage set up in Chanchiya paaniya range," said a forest official. After medical check-up, it will be released into jungles.
Fire in Dalkhaniya range, no damages reported
28-01-2009
Fire in Dalkhaniya range, no damages reported
Times of India
A forest fire in Dalkhaniya range on Monday morning engulfed nearly five hectares of forest area. No injuries or damages were reported in the incident. "Only grass was burnt in the fire the cause of which has yet to be ascertained," said MM Sharma, conservator of forest, Junagadh Wildlife. "Firemen brought the fire under control in 40 minutes," Sharma added.
Fire in Dalkhaniya range, no damages reported
Times of India
A forest fire in Dalkhaniya range on Monday morning engulfed nearly five hectares of forest area. No injuries or damages were reported in the incident. "Only grass was burnt in the fire the cause of which has yet to be ascertained," said MM Sharma, conservator of forest, Junagadh Wildlife. "Firemen brought the fire under control in 40 minutes," Sharma added.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Lions attack for 4th time at Gir
24-01-2009
Lions attack for 4th time at Gir
Times of India
Rajkot : The lion king is angry. His fight for space and food is taking its toll on humans. Until now, the Gir forest and its surrounding region was being hailed as one place where man and lion had leant to live together with very few years. In the past week, this balance has been disturbed.
An usual spurt in attacks-four in the past eight days –on humans in and around Gir sanctuary has left experts concerned. In the latest incident on Friday, a pride of five lions attacked cattle and humans at three separate places.
First, the pride killed cattle in Bharwadas in Akada village at 6 : 30 am before being chased away by villagers. Two hours later, one lion from the pride pounced on Bhagwanji Vanparia, a 48-year old former sarpanch of the village. At around 10:30 am, lions attacked Rekha Sarviya and her eight-year-old son Rahul near Chokli village along Junagadh –Bhesan highway. They were saved by laborers who were passing by.
Observers say this is a second multiple attack in a span of a few hours in the past two years. "We don't feel animals have behaved abnormally. Humans should exercise more restraint. Lions venturing out of the sanctuary is normal, and it happens only once in a while," says Mm Sharma, conservator of forests, Junagadh. In all the attacks over the past one week, humans have intruded into lion territory.
Regarding Friday's attack, senior forest official said villagers chasing away lions and preventing them from feasting on their prey agitated the beasts and could have led to more attacks.
About 15 months ago, a similar multiple attack had occurred on the outskirts of Dervan and Vadal villages near Junagadh forest range. Officials estimate the number of lions in Junagadh forest range at 18, but the unofficial count is close to 30.
Jan 16 : Lion kills Mukesh Parmar, 35, after he gets close to a mating pair at Babara-Virdi.
Jan 18 : Shepherd Chheda Devayat,25, has a close shave after being attacked by a lion at Dhari-Tulsishyam range of Gir forest.
Jan 20 : A lion attacks a 13-year-old boy sleeping in the fields in Morvel village of Dhari taluka.
• Bhagvanji Vanparia was attacked by lion on Friday.
Lions attack for 4th time at Gir
Times of India
Rajkot : The lion king is angry. His fight for space and food is taking its toll on humans. Until now, the Gir forest and its surrounding region was being hailed as one place where man and lion had leant to live together with very few years. In the past week, this balance has been disturbed.
An usual spurt in attacks-four in the past eight days –on humans in and around Gir sanctuary has left experts concerned. In the latest incident on Friday, a pride of five lions attacked cattle and humans at three separate places.
First, the pride killed cattle in Bharwadas in Akada village at 6 : 30 am before being chased away by villagers. Two hours later, one lion from the pride pounced on Bhagwanji Vanparia, a 48-year old former sarpanch of the village. At around 10:30 am, lions attacked Rekha Sarviya and her eight-year-old son Rahul near Chokli village along Junagadh –Bhesan highway. They were saved by laborers who were passing by.
Observers say this is a second multiple attack in a span of a few hours in the past two years. "We don't feel animals have behaved abnormally. Humans should exercise more restraint. Lions venturing out of the sanctuary is normal, and it happens only once in a while," says Mm Sharma, conservator of forests, Junagadh. In all the attacks over the past one week, humans have intruded into lion territory.
Regarding Friday's attack, senior forest official said villagers chasing away lions and preventing them from feasting on their prey agitated the beasts and could have led to more attacks.
About 15 months ago, a similar multiple attack had occurred on the outskirts of Dervan and Vadal villages near Junagadh forest range. Officials estimate the number of lions in Junagadh forest range at 18, but the unofficial count is close to 30.
Jan 16 : Lion kills Mukesh Parmar, 35, after he gets close to a mating pair at Babara-Virdi.
Jan 18 : Shepherd Chheda Devayat,25, has a close shave after being attacked by a lion at Dhari-Tulsishyam range of Gir forest.
Jan 20 : A lion attacks a 13-year-old boy sleeping in the fields in Morvel village of Dhari taluka.
• Bhagvanji Vanparia was attacked by lion on Friday.
Major overhaul in forest dept
24-01-2009
Major overhaul in forest dept
Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Ahmedabad/Major_overhaul_in_forest_dept/articleshow/4018922.cms
AHMEDABAD: The state government effected major transfers in the forest department, shifting out conservator of forest (CF) Wildlife Junagadh and Gir sanctuary) Bharat Pathak.
Pathak, who headed Gir sanctuary for the past eight years, will now be in charge of the newly carved north Gujarat wildlife circle comprising Nal Sarovar, Thol, Balaram and Jessore sloth bear sanctuary.
He will be replaced by MM Sharma who was conservator of Junagadh.
Apart from these, at least six conservators of forest were promoted as chief conservator of forest (CCF).
These were major transfers of the chief conservator and conservator of forest category in the past couple of years. Recently, the forest department had transferred deputy conservator of forest and officials of ranks below.
According to senior officials, Pathak's transfer was long overdue but considering his work, the officials had kept him in Gir for nearly eight years. Sources said that there was major discontentment among officials over this.
Among those promoted as chief conservator of forest are K Chand, currently CF Valsad, who is now CCF (monitoring and vigilance); Anup Shukla, MD of Central Gujarat Electricity Company, who is now posted as MD, Gujarat Tourism Corporation Limited; AK Varsana, CF (social forestry) Rajkot, who has been transferred as MD, Gujarat Rural Development Corporation; SC Srivastav, MD Gujarat Agro Limited, who is now CCF (working plan) Vadodara. Also, RJ Assari, CF Surat, has been promoted as CCF (land) Gandhinagar while AK Saxena, director (biotechnology) has been promoted as CCF.
Major overhaul in forest dept
Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Ahmedabad/Major_overhaul_in_forest_dept/articleshow/4018922.cms
AHMEDABAD: The state government effected major transfers in the forest department, shifting out conservator of forest (CF) Wildlife Junagadh and Gir sanctuary) Bharat Pathak.
Pathak, who headed Gir sanctuary for the past eight years, will now be in charge of the newly carved north Gujarat wildlife circle comprising Nal Sarovar, Thol, Balaram and Jessore sloth bear sanctuary.
He will be replaced by MM Sharma who was conservator of Junagadh.
Apart from these, at least six conservators of forest were promoted as chief conservator of forest (CCF).
These were major transfers of the chief conservator and conservator of forest category in the past couple of years. Recently, the forest department had transferred deputy conservator of forest and officials of ranks below.
According to senior officials, Pathak's transfer was long overdue but considering his work, the officials had kept him in Gir for nearly eight years. Sources said that there was major discontentment among officials over this.
Among those promoted as chief conservator of forest are K Chand, currently CF Valsad, who is now CCF (monitoring and vigilance); Anup Shukla, MD of Central Gujarat Electricity Company, who is now posted as MD, Gujarat Tourism Corporation Limited; AK Varsana, CF (social forestry) Rajkot, who has been transferred as MD, Gujarat Rural Development Corporation; SC Srivastav, MD Gujarat Agro Limited, who is now CCF (working plan) Vadodara. Also, RJ Assari, CF Surat, has been promoted as CCF (land) Gandhinagar while AK Saxena, director (biotechnology) has been promoted as CCF.
Siddis dance to Obama tune
21-01-2009
Siddis dance to Obama tune
Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Rajkot/Siddis_dance_to_Obama_tune/articleshow/4013041.cms
RAJKOT: As Barack Obama took oath as United States' first Black president on Tuesday, Siddi Badshahs broke into "Dhamal" dance in their villages to
mark the historic event taking place thousands of miles away from Gujarat.
Siddis, who belong to Sudan's Masai tribe, are mostly found in three villages on the outskirts of Gir forest, the only abode of Asiatic lions. They are settled in these villages since their arrival from Africa many centuries ago.
Jambur, Sirvan and Rasulpara villages were seized by euphoria and what better way to celebrate than "Dhamal" dance. The youths danced to the beats even as elders in Siddi tribe were glued to the television sets to witness the swearing-in ceremony of Obama.
For them it was a symbol of triumph of Black people, who suffered torture and humiliation for centuries in US, but never let self doubt seize them. The fact that a descendant of a Black immigrant took the sacred oath to become the most powerful man in the world was a moment which had no parallel in their lives. They were able to connect with Obama and his becoming commander-in-chief of US was a matter of gratification for each and every member of Siddi community.
Some of the Siddis, who have moved into Rajkot from Jambur, also had a "Dhamal" time. "We danced to celebrate the occasion and also distributed sweets," said Allarakha Mukindo. "We are proud of the achievements of Obama and boxer Mohammed Ali," he said.
"Earlier, we had our settlements near Gir forest. However, now for better prospects, many members of the community have migrated to Junagadh, Rajkot and Ahmedabad," said Javed Makavana, who also hails from Jambur village.
President of Junagadh District Tribal Conference Ahmed Bhalia said, "Siddi community members gathered at Nagarchi Dargah on Tuesday to pray for the long life of new American president."
Siddis dance to Obama tune
Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Rajkot/Siddis_dance_to_Obama_tune/articleshow/4013041.cms
RAJKOT: As Barack Obama took oath as United States' first Black president on Tuesday, Siddi Badshahs broke into "Dhamal" dance in their villages to
mark the historic event taking place thousands of miles away from Gujarat.
Siddis, who belong to Sudan's Masai tribe, are mostly found in three villages on the outskirts of Gir forest, the only abode of Asiatic lions. They are settled in these villages since their arrival from Africa many centuries ago.
Jambur, Sirvan and Rasulpara villages were seized by euphoria and what better way to celebrate than "Dhamal" dance. The youths danced to the beats even as elders in Siddi tribe were glued to the television sets to witness the swearing-in ceremony of Obama.
For them it was a symbol of triumph of Black people, who suffered torture and humiliation for centuries in US, but never let self doubt seize them. The fact that a descendant of a Black immigrant took the sacred oath to become the most powerful man in the world was a moment which had no parallel in their lives. They were able to connect with Obama and his becoming commander-in-chief of US was a matter of gratification for each and every member of Siddi community.
Some of the Siddis, who have moved into Rajkot from Jambur, also had a "Dhamal" time. "We danced to celebrate the occasion and also distributed sweets," said Allarakha Mukindo. "We are proud of the achievements of Obama and boxer Mohammed Ali," he said.
"Earlier, we had our settlements near Gir forest. However, now for better prospects, many members of the community have migrated to Junagadh, Rajkot and Ahmedabad," said Javed Makavana, who also hails from Jambur village.
President of Junagadh District Tribal Conference Ahmed Bhalia said, "Siddi community members gathered at Nagarchi Dargah on Tuesday to pray for the long life of new American president."
Foresters puzzled over lion killing man
21-01-2009
Foresters puzzled over lion killing man
Times of India
Gir(Junagadh) : The incident of Mukesh Parmar being killed by a pride of lions in Barda-Viridi range of Gir on January 16 has foresters wondering. After all such incidents of killing by a lion have not been witnessed in the recent past by them. "A few cases of lion killing human beings have been recorded, but not in the recent past", said Amit Kumar, district forest officer.
A male, four females and four cubs were gamboling in a 200 sq m area when the victim, a youth from nearby Mangrol village accompanied by three friends, started taking snap shots from his cell phone. The male was mating with a lioness when Parmar got within five feet distance while taking snapshots. The lion pounced on him, caught his left leg and bit off the lion dragged Parmar deep into the forest and killed him, feasting on his body.
Whatever was left of the body was recovered by forest department after two hours. "It is the tendency of any carnivore to either attack or flee. In this case the lion chose to attack sensing danger in close proximity", said Kumar.
Foresters puzzled over lion killing man
Times of India
Gir(Junagadh) : The incident of Mukesh Parmar being killed by a pride of lions in Barda-Viridi range of Gir on January 16 has foresters wondering. After all such incidents of killing by a lion have not been witnessed in the recent past by them. "A few cases of lion killing human beings have been recorded, but not in the recent past", said Amit Kumar, district forest officer.
A male, four females and four cubs were gamboling in a 200 sq m area when the victim, a youth from nearby Mangrol village accompanied by three friends, started taking snap shots from his cell phone. The male was mating with a lioness when Parmar got within five feet distance while taking snapshots. The lion pounced on him, caught his left leg and bit off the lion dragged Parmar deep into the forest and killed him, feasting on his body.
Whatever was left of the body was recovered by forest department after two hours. "It is the tendency of any carnivore to either attack or flee. In this case the lion chose to attack sensing danger in close proximity", said Kumar.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Lion attacks one more outside Gir
21-01-2009
Lion attacks one more outside Gir
Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/Rajkot/Lion_attacks_one_more_outside_Gir_/articleshow/4008320.cms
AHMEDABAD: In yet another incident, a lion attacked a 13-year-old boy who was sleeping in the fields in Morvel village of Dhari taluka.
The incident took place outside Gir sanctuary on Tuesday morning when Haresh Bhalabhai was sleeping in the field. However, he managed to escape with minor injuries.
According to the family, they were sleeping in the fields when Haresh started screaming. Hearing his cry, the family woke up and hearing the cries of the family, the lion escaped. Morvel is just outside the protected sanctuary towards Dhari.
Conservator of Forest Bharat Pathak said this is a minor incident as the boy was treated at the out patient department. He added that officials have gone to the area to ascertain whether it was an attack by the lion or something else. "We will look for the pug marks of the animal from the spot to ascertain whether the family is telling truth," Pathak said.
This is the third such incident. The first was on Friday where a youth Mukesh Parmar was killed after he went too close taking photographs of the mating lions.
In another incident, a buffalo saved a shepherd from the jaws of a lioness in Dhari-Tulsishyam range of Gir forest. The youth, identified as Chheda Devayat (25), was injured while trying to save his cattle from lions' attack. Devayat had gone along with his three shepherd friends Mehul Bhammar, Lakhman Bhammar and Bhola Chheda in the jungle.
Lion attacks one more outside Gir
Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/Rajkot/Lion_attacks_one_more_outside_Gir_/articleshow/4008320.cms
AHMEDABAD: In yet another incident, a lion attacked a 13-year-old boy who was sleeping in the fields in Morvel village of Dhari taluka.
The incident took place outside Gir sanctuary on Tuesday morning when Haresh Bhalabhai was sleeping in the field. However, he managed to escape with minor injuries.
According to the family, they were sleeping in the fields when Haresh started screaming. Hearing his cry, the family woke up and hearing the cries of the family, the lion escaped. Morvel is just outside the protected sanctuary towards Dhari.
Conservator of Forest Bharat Pathak said this is a minor incident as the boy was treated at the out patient department. He added that officials have gone to the area to ascertain whether it was an attack by the lion or something else. "We will look for the pug marks of the animal from the spot to ascertain whether the family is telling truth," Pathak said.
This is the third such incident. The first was on Friday where a youth Mukesh Parmar was killed after he went too close taking photographs of the mating lions.
In another incident, a buffalo saved a shepherd from the jaws of a lioness in Dhari-Tulsishyam range of Gir forest. The youth, identified as Chheda Devayat (25), was injured while trying to save his cattle from lions' attack. Devayat had gone along with his three shepherd friends Mehul Bhammar, Lakhman Bhammar and Bhola Chheda in the jungle.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Villagers walk into Babra Virdi unchecked
18-01-2009
Villagers walk into Babra Virdi unchecked
Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Rajkot/Villagers_walk_into_Babra_Virdi_unchecked/articleshow/3998288.cms
JUNAGADH: Babra Virdi spread over 812 hectares of land just 15 km off Gir is a reserve forest area, but forest trails are used by villagers often, resulting in man-animal conflict.
Two trails, one from Babra to Chuladi and another from Babra to Panakwa here, have been sanctioned for use by the forest department to just three villages Babra, Chuladi and Panakwa. But, in absence of strict law enforcement, people from other places too use these kachha' roads.
Technically, to pass through the area, one has to obtain permission from forest department in Junagadh, but in absence of check posts or gates demarcating the roads, no one is checked. Moreover, traffic flux not being very heavy, the forest department hardly pays attention to these areas.
District forest officer Amit Kumar says, "One needs permission to pass through this road, but it is practically impossible to prevent each and every outsider from using the road and distinguish them from residents of the three permitted villages."
"Till now, we have been adopting a humane approach and not been very strict as long as it doesn't disturb the lion population of the area," says Kumar. "This area is favourite spot for lions during mating season and probably the youth from Mangrol, who was mauled to death by a lion on Friday afternoon, tried to be adventurous in clicking pictures," he adds
Villagers walk into Babra Virdi unchecked
Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Rajkot/Villagers_walk_into_Babra_Virdi_unchecked/articleshow/3998288.cms
JUNAGADH: Babra Virdi spread over 812 hectares of land just 15 km off Gir is a reserve forest area, but forest trails are used by villagers often, resulting in man-animal conflict.
Two trails, one from Babra to Chuladi and another from Babra to Panakwa here, have been sanctioned for use by the forest department to just three villages Babra, Chuladi and Panakwa. But, in absence of strict law enforcement, people from other places too use these kachha' roads.
Technically, to pass through the area, one has to obtain permission from forest department in Junagadh, but in absence of check posts or gates demarcating the roads, no one is checked. Moreover, traffic flux not being very heavy, the forest department hardly pays attention to these areas.
District forest officer Amit Kumar says, "One needs permission to pass through this road, but it is practically impossible to prevent each and every outsider from using the road and distinguish them from residents of the three permitted villages."
"Till now, we have been adopting a humane approach and not been very strict as long as it doesn't disturb the lion population of the area," says Kumar. "This area is favourite spot for lions during mating season and probably the youth from Mangrol, who was mauled to death by a lion on Friday afternoon, tried to be adventurous in clicking pictures," he adds
Most forest circles cannot handle emergencies
19-01-2009
Most forest circles cannot handle emergencies
Express India By Shubhlakshmi Shukla
http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/most-forest-circles-cannot-handle-emergencies/412411/
Vallabh Vidyanagar (Anand) The absence of the Rescue Task Force (RTF) with Anand district forest officials has exposed a major lapse on the part of the Forest department in tackling incidents such as the one on Sunday. It is mandatory for the forest department in every district to have a regular veterinary doctor who has the licence to use tranquilisers. But Gir sanctuary is the lone place equipped with facilities such as the RTF and veterinary doctors.
Anand forest officials on condition of anonymity said that they had to make 20 phone calls to get the tranquilisers. Also, they could manage only one expert from the Sayaji Baug zoo. Anand, which is a non-forest area, has no territorial or wildlife forest circle. This forced social forestry officials to call experts from Vadodara and Sayaji Baug. Officials from the nearby forest circles had tranquiliser guns, but all the darts were outdated. A forest official of the Vadodara circle said, "Such incidents are rare. While we had a tranquiliser gun with the Baria division, all the darts were outdated. Besides, tranquiliser guns are very costly, with one dart costing nearly Rs 1,000." At the Anand Veterinary Hospital, none of the doctors has the licence to use tranquilisers. Dr R G Jani of the hospital is a Wildlife Health Coordinator for the Western zone appointed by Government of India. He too does not have the licence. When asked, he said, "It is the Forest department's responsibility."
Forest officials, on the other hand, shrugged off responsibility, saying they never expected such an incident. It may be mentioned here that a leopard had been spotted at the Anand-Borsad Road earlier also.
Most forest circles cannot handle emergencies
Express India By Shubhlakshmi Shukla
http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/most-forest-circles-cannot-handle-emergencies/412411/
Vallabh Vidyanagar (Anand) The absence of the Rescue Task Force (RTF) with Anand district forest officials has exposed a major lapse on the part of the Forest department in tackling incidents such as the one on Sunday. It is mandatory for the forest department in every district to have a regular veterinary doctor who has the licence to use tranquilisers. But Gir sanctuary is the lone place equipped with facilities such as the RTF and veterinary doctors.
Anand forest officials on condition of anonymity said that they had to make 20 phone calls to get the tranquilisers. Also, they could manage only one expert from the Sayaji Baug zoo. Anand, which is a non-forest area, has no territorial or wildlife forest circle. This forced social forestry officials to call experts from Vadodara and Sayaji Baug. Officials from the nearby forest circles had tranquiliser guns, but all the darts were outdated. A forest official of the Vadodara circle said, "Such incidents are rare. While we had a tranquiliser gun with the Baria division, all the darts were outdated. Besides, tranquiliser guns are very costly, with one dart costing nearly Rs 1,000." At the Anand Veterinary Hospital, none of the doctors has the licence to use tranquilisers. Dr R G Jani of the hospital is a Wildlife Health Coordinator for the Western zone appointed by Government of India. He too does not have the licence. When asked, he said, "It is the Forest department's responsibility."
Forest officials, on the other hand, shrugged off responsibility, saying they never expected such an incident. It may be mentioned here that a leopard had been spotted at the Anand-Borsad Road earlier also.
Buffalo saves youth from lioness
18-01-2009
Buffalo saves youth from lioness
Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Rajkot/Buffalo_saves_youth_from_lioness/articleshow/3998329.cms
RAJKOT: In a rare wildlife incident, a buffalo saved a shepherd youth from the jaws of a lioness in Dhari-Tulsishyam range of Gir forest on Sunday morning. This incident left the youth injured. However, deputy forest officer of the range, M S Raja termed it as accidental attack. Official version said that the youth, Chheda Devayat (25), was injured while trying to save his cattle from the lions' attack.
According to villagers of Rajgariya Nase of Dhari-Tulsishyam road, Devayat had gone along with his three shepherd friends -- Mehul Bhammar, Lakhman Bhammar and Bhola Chheda, for cattle grazing in the jungle when they were confronted by the pride of five lions including a lioness.
"Suddenly, the lioness pounced upon Devayat. However, seeing his master being attacked, the buffalo owned by Devayat rushed to his rescue and drove away the big cat, brandishing horns," a villager narrated.
"However, Devayat was injured as the lioness had bitten off his buttocks," the villager said.
"The big cats beat a retreat as they were outnumbered by the flock of 50 to 60 buffaloes, which all rallied around the youths to protect them," he said.
Meanwhile, Devayat was rushed to Dhari government hospital, where he is recuperating.
Buffalo saves youth from lioness
Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Rajkot/Buffalo_saves_youth_from_lioness/articleshow/3998329.cms
RAJKOT: In a rare wildlife incident, a buffalo saved a shepherd youth from the jaws of a lioness in Dhari-Tulsishyam range of Gir forest on Sunday morning. This incident left the youth injured. However, deputy forest officer of the range, M S Raja termed it as accidental attack. Official version said that the youth, Chheda Devayat (25), was injured while trying to save his cattle from the lions' attack.
According to villagers of Rajgariya Nase of Dhari-Tulsishyam road, Devayat had gone along with his three shepherd friends -- Mehul Bhammar, Lakhman Bhammar and Bhola Chheda, for cattle grazing in the jungle when they were confronted by the pride of five lions including a lioness.
"Suddenly, the lioness pounced upon Devayat. However, seeing his master being attacked, the buffalo owned by Devayat rushed to his rescue and drove away the big cat, brandishing horns," a villager narrated.
"However, Devayat was injured as the lioness had bitten off his buttocks," the villager said.
"The big cats beat a retreat as they were outnumbered by the flock of 50 to 60 buffaloes, which all rallied around the youths to protect them," he said.
Meanwhile, Devayat was rushed to Dhari government hospital, where he is recuperating.
After lions kill man, forest dept files case against 3 for trespassing
18-01-2009
After lions kill man, forest dept files case against 3 for trespassing
Express India By Sibte Husain Bukhari
http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/after-lions-kill-man-forest-dept-files-case-against-3-for-trespassing/412149/
Junagadh Rajesh Parmar (28), who was killed by a pride of lions on the outskirts of Gir, had entered the sanctuary illegally alongwith three of his friends. The incident had occurred on Friday afternoon in Barbara vidi reserved forest area. The deceased was the younger brother of Mangrol BJP councillor Kishan Parmar, who is also Mangrol city BJP president. The other three youths who could get away on their bikes are still at large and a complaint has been registered against them.
According to the Forest department, the four had entered the reserved forest illegally on two motorcycles and located a pride of lions. They went near the animals for a closer view. A full grown lion attacked them and Parmar was left behind when the others escaped on their bikes.
Foresters later rushed to the spot and recovered, albeit with great difficulty, the partly eaten cadaver of the victim. The lions had dragged the body 300 metres away from the spot.
K R Vaghasiya, Range Forest Officer (Veraval range), who monitored the entire operation, said, "After conducting postmortem at the government hospital in Maliya town, the body was handed over to victim's kin."
A case has been registered under Rule 2 (12) and 26 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, against the three for illegally entering the forest and teasing wild animals.
According to Vaghasiya, the offences are liable to punishment up to six months imprisonment or fine ranging between Rs 500 and Rs 2,000.
"No one has been arrested so far and no statement has been registered. At this stage, it would be premature to say if the victim's kin will receive compensation," he added.
Frequent illegal entry in Gir raises many questions on security of wildlife
After lions kill man, forest dept files case against 3 for trespassing
Express India By Sibte Husain Bukhari
http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/after-lions-kill-man-forest-dept-files-case-against-3-for-trespassing/412149/
Junagadh Rajesh Parmar (28), who was killed by a pride of lions on the outskirts of Gir, had entered the sanctuary illegally alongwith three of his friends. The incident had occurred on Friday afternoon in Barbara vidi reserved forest area. The deceased was the younger brother of Mangrol BJP councillor Kishan Parmar, who is also Mangrol city BJP president. The other three youths who could get away on their bikes are still at large and a complaint has been registered against them.
According to the Forest department, the four had entered the reserved forest illegally on two motorcycles and located a pride of lions. They went near the animals for a closer view. A full grown lion attacked them and Parmar was left behind when the others escaped on their bikes.
Foresters later rushed to the spot and recovered, albeit with great difficulty, the partly eaten cadaver of the victim. The lions had dragged the body 300 metres away from the spot.
K R Vaghasiya, Range Forest Officer (Veraval range), who monitored the entire operation, said, "After conducting postmortem at the government hospital in Maliya town, the body was handed over to victim's kin."
A case has been registered under Rule 2 (12) and 26 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, against the three for illegally entering the forest and teasing wild animals.
According to Vaghasiya, the offences are liable to punishment up to six months imprisonment or fine ranging between Rs 500 and Rs 2,000.
"No one has been arrested so far and no statement has been registered. At this stage, it would be premature to say if the victim's kin will receive compensation," he added.
Frequent illegal entry in Gir raises many questions on security of wildlife
Lions kill man at jungle show
17-01-2009
Lions kill man at jungle show
Times of India
Spectator Mauled To Death At Gir 'Illegal' Event
Ahmedabad: A group of lions attacked and killed a 35-yearold man in the reserved forest area of Gir in Gujarat's Junagadh district.
How the victim Mukesh Parmar and three of his friends, who were reportedly watching an illegal lion show, came so close to the beasts is a mystery. The spot where the mishap took place, Babra Virdi area, is known for illegal lion shows where a bait is dragged by a vehicle and the spectators pay to watch the lions chasing it.
According to the official version, the incident happened between 2.45 pm and 3 pm on Friday when a group of four bikers was attacked by the lions. Farmers working in the nearby fields told forest officials that three in the group ran away as soon as the lion attacked Parmar. The mood of the hungry lions was apparent from the fact that two cows had been killed between Thursday night and Friday morning in the same area.
Forest officials say the attack on Parmar raised suspicion as to why the group had gone so close to the beast. Locals said although this particular road saw heavy traffic, Parmar and his friends were attacked in the dense jungle. In April last year, TOI had reported how lion shows were hosted for foreign clients by paying fees between Rs 2,500 and Rs 10,000.
Additional principal chief conservator of forest Pradeep Khana confirmed the incident and said a probe would reveal if the victim was part of something illegal. Parmar's brother, Kishan, told TOI over the phone that his brother was headed to buy ghee for his bakery. He lost his way while returning and landed in the lion's den, he said, denying that his brother had gone for a lion show.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
SC clears Amreli lion park
10-01-2009
SC clears Amreli lion park
Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Rajkot/SC_clears_Amreli_lion_park_/articleshow/3961092.cms
NEW DELHI: A Supreme Court bench of Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan and Justice P Sathasivam okayed setting up of Ambardi Wildlife Interpretation Park in Amreli district, Gujarat, after state counsel Hemantika Wahi said the in-principle approval of Central Zoo Authority (CZA) for the park had been obtained.
She said, "The project would include a safari, an orientation centre and natural education facilities while keeping wild animals in natural conditions. But, the most important function of the park would be to help in the ongoing captive conservation breeding of Asiatic lions. Because of a shrinking prey base and growing lion population, many lions were found straying into Amreli district."
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Lioness carcass spotted at Dhari
08-01-2009
Lioness carcass spotted at Dhari
Times of India
The decomposed carcass of a 12-years-old lioness at Karjalla near Hipavadali village of Savarkundla in Amreli district kept forest staff on their toes all Tuesday. Assistant conservator of forests, Dhari range, inspected the site along with support staff. "As it was highly decomposed, post mortem was performed on the spot," he said. Though reports have not been able to clearly state the cause of death yet, it was presumed the lion died of old age.
Forest guard bit two boys
08-01-2009
Forest guard bit two boys
Divya Bhaskar
Briefly translated from Gujarati
In an incident that happened at Motisar village.
Two boys (Age 15 years and 12 years) Lalji and his cousin were removing algal from the canal near Vadli village of Una sub-district in Gir E. in the mean time forest guards took the boys to Jasadhar range forest office. As boys complained to police, there they were bitten by five people including RFO Malani. Boys were taken to hospital.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Village head bitten by Forest staff
05-01-2009
Village head bitten by Forest staff
Divya Bhaskar
Briefly translated from Gujarati
In an man-man conflict (!!!), forest officers and guard bit up Khimji Velji of Jasapar village near Sasan in Gir West. Forest department said he was involved in wood – cutting and theft from jungle.
One more Lion death due to Open Well
05-01-2009
One more Lion death due to Open Well
Divya Bhaskar
Briefly translated from Gujarati
Few maldhari's went for water at up-sarpanch Gokulbhai Fudsaiya's farm at Sanosara village near Una in Gir East. They found foul-smell in the water and they informed forest officer 3-4 year old found out carcass of a lion, swollen due to drowning in the Open Well water.
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