Drones, Watchtowers To Safeguard Jain Pilgrims From Asiatic Lions At Shatrunjay Hill
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Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
The Gujarat Forest Department will introduce round-the-clock drone surveillance and other safety measures at Shatrunjay Hill in Palitana after recent sightings of Asiatic lions in the area. The measures are aimed at protecting Jain pilgrims while also ensuring the safety of the wildlife.
A high-level meeting on the issue was held in Gandhinagar under the chairmanship of Gujarat Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia, along with Minister of State Pravin Mali and other officials.
Drones and real-time lion tracking
The Forest Department will use drones, continuous scanning and real-time tracking to monitor lion movement during both day and night.
Officials have also been directed to put the security measures into operation immediately.
Four pre-fabricated watchtowers and four pre-fabricated centre-cum-cabins will be installed along the pilgrimage trail to strengthen monitoring and provide support for pilgrims.
Local youth to assist Forest Department
The government plans to recruit local youth on a temporary basis to help track lions and guide pilgrims during their visit.
The pilgrimage pathway will also undergo environmentally conscious repairs to make the climb safer and easier without disturbing the surrounding habitat.
Forest Department officials presented an assessment based on a year-long observation of lion behaviour in the area during the meeting.
Pilgrims advised to avoid night travel
Authorities said Asiatic lions rarely attack humans without provocation, but stressed that precautions are necessary following the recent sightings.
Pilgrims have been advised to begin their ascent only after sunrise and complete their journey before sunset to reduce the risk of encounters with nocturnal wildlife.
The government is also considering declaring the Shatrunjay Hill area a “silent zone” to reduce disturbances to wildlife.
Plans for habitat conservation and pilgrim safety
The meeting also covered habitat conservation, project management consultancy, public awareness and arrangements for traditional religious events, including the Chha Gau Yatra.
The Forest Department has been instructed to implement the proposed measures immediately to create a safer environment for pilgrims while maintaining protection of the Asiatic lions and their habitat.
