Maharashtra’s Tiger Population Soars to 444, Govt Sanctions ₹200 Crore for Safety Measures
Mumbai, March 5 – Maharashtra’s tiger population has surged to 444 in 2024, a dramatic rise from just 101 in 2000, marking a significant achievement in wildlife conservation. The announcement was made by Forest Minister Ganesh Naik in the state assembly’s ongoing session.
However, the increase in tiger numbers has brought growing concerns about human-wildlife conflict, particularly in regions like Bhandara’s wildlife sanctuary, where two people lost their lives in tiger attacks this year. Addressing the assembly, Naik assured that steps are being taken to mitigate such incidents.
₹200 Crore Allocated for Solar Fencing
In response to rising conflicts, the state government has approved ₹200 crore for solar fencing of villages located near tiger corridors. The move aims to prevent tigers from straying into human settlements, reducing the threat to villagers and protecting their farmlands.
Naik also stated that he would pursue further safety measures, including the fencing of villages that lie on tiger movement routes.
Farmers and Lawmakers Raise Concerns
Congress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar pointed out that farmers are living in fear as tigers and leopards not only threaten lives but also destroy crops. Lawmakers across party lines expressed concerns over the increasing number of human-wildlife encounters and called for urgent preventive measures.
To address these concerns, Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar has agreed to hold a special discussion on the issue, emphasizing the need for long-term solutions that balance conservation with human safety.
A Balancing Act: Conservation vs. Human Safety
While Maharashtra’s thriving tiger population is a testament to successful conservation efforts, it also presents new challenges. Authorities are now under pressure to strike a balance between protecting wildlife and ensuring human safety, making man-animal conflict resolution a key agenda for the state government.
