Gujarat to Build 100-Hectare Enclosure at Ambardi Park for Lions Involved in Human Attacks

The Gujarat Forest Department has commenced construction on a 100-hectare specialised enclosure within Ambardi Safari Park in Amreli district. Designed to house Asiatic lions involved in attacks on humans, the facility aims to manage escalating human-wildlife conflict while ensuring the big cats remain in a natural habitat.

Located within a reserved forest zone of the Gir Protected Area near Dhari, the designated site will isolate lions deemed a safety risk to local residents after being captured from surrounding agricultural and populated belts.

Relocating Problem Big Cats to Secure Natural Habitats

Dr Jaipal Singh, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, confirmed that formal directives have been issued and ground operations are underway. "Lions involved in human attacks will be kept in a suitable environment by fencing a designated area at Ambardi Safari Park. Necessary instructions have been issued for this work, and the required work has been initiated," Singh stated.

The timing of the decision precedes World Lion Day on 10 August, an annual global event dedicated to raising awareness regarding lion conservation. According to state officials, various conservation schemes have been implemented under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to safeguard the region's Asiatic lion population.

Managing Conflict Across the Gir Regional Landscape

Scientific relocation remains a core strategy for the Forest Department to reduce friction between wildlife and human settlements, maintain ecological balance, and protect vulnerable species.

Animals that wander into villages are routinely captured and released back into deeper forest areas. Relocations are also conducted for medical treatment, population management, or habitat optimization. While leopards and lions entering farmland are typically relocated to safe sanctuary zones, crocodiles straying near human habitations along lakes and riverbanks are moved to safer water bodies.

Balancing Eco-Tourism and Safety in Amreli District

Established in 2017, Ambardi Safari Park spans approximately 365 hectares near Dhari and has grown into a notable eco-tourism destination. In addition to Asiatic lions, the park hosts leopards, chital, nilgai, chinkara, peafowl, and diverse bird species. Beyond its conservation and educational mandate, the park provides local employment and boosts Amreli’s district economy.

The upcoming 100-hectare facility will function as a distinct, secured sub-zone within the broader safari park, allowing authorities to manage high-risk lions without compromising standard visitor tours or local safety.