A tragic incident unfolded at a jungle safari park near the Statue of Unity on January 1, as a leopard killed one blackbuck, with seven others dying from shock. The park, located within the periphery of the Kevadia forest division, is a popular attraction near the world’s tallest statue and is surrounded by the dense Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, a habitat known for its leopard population.
Details of the Incident
According to forest officials, the leopard, aged between 2 and 3 years, breached the safari park’s well-fenced boundaries in the early hours. The big cat entered the herbivore enclosure, where it fatally attacked one blackbuck. The remaining seven blackbucks reportedly succumbed to shock and panic triggered by the predator’s presence.
The carcasses of all eight animals were sent for post-mortem examinations and subsequently cremated. Forest officials confirmed this was the first time a wild leopard managed to infiltrate the park despite its security measures.
Security and Monitoring
Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) Agneeshwar Vyas, overseeing the Kevadia division, noted that while leopard activity in the surrounding forests is not unusual, the safari park had never experienced such an incident. The park is equipped with over 400 CCTV cameras, and the leopard’s intrusion was detected swiftly. Security personnel were alerted, prompting the leopard to flee, though it remains unclear if it has exited the park entirely.
Tourist Concerns and Response
The jungle safari park was temporarily closed for 48 hours following the incident to ensure safety and to allow a thorough investigation. The park reopened to visitors on January 3, but concerns persist about the leopard’s possible return.
Forest officials have initiated a probe to understand how the breach occurred and are taking steps to prevent such incidents in the future. Additional surveillance and security measures are being considered to enhance the park’s safety.
The incident has raised questions about the balance between wildlife conservation and public safety, particularly in areas where human activities intersect with natural habitats.
Sources By Agencies
