Maharashtra’s Tiger Population Roars to 444! Forest Minister Assures Safety Measures
Maharashtra News: Tiger Attack in Chandrapur Claims Lives of Three Women
Mumbai, March 5: Maharashtra’s tiger population has surged to 444 in 2024, up from just 101 in 2000, marking a significant conservation success, announced Forest Minister Ganesh Naik in the state assembly on Wednesday.
Addressing concerns over rising man-animal conflicts, particularly in Bhandara’s wildlife sanctuary, Naik revealed that the government has sanctioned ₹200 crore for solar fencing around villages near tiger corridors. This initiative aims to reduce human-wildlife confrontations, which have claimed two lives this year.
Opposition leader Vijay Wadettiwar highlighted the growing distress among farmers, citing crop destruction caused by tigers and leopards. Legislators from all parties voiced concerns over the increasing human-wildlife conflict, urging urgent preventive measures.
Speaker Rahul Narwekar agreed to hold a detailed discussion on the issue, emphasizing the need for long-term solutions to ensure the safety of both wildlife and local communities.
With Maharashtra’s tiger population thriving, authorities are now under pressure to balance conservation efforts with human safety, making wildlife protection a key agenda for the state.
