8 Tigers To Be Relocated To Sahyadri Tiger Reserve From Tadoba and Pench
8 Tigers To Be Relocated To Sahyadri Tiger Reserve From Tadoba and Pench
Kolhapur, September 13, 2025: The Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, the only tiger reserve in Western Maharashtra, is set to see a significant boost in its tiger population. Formed by combining the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary in Satara and Chandoli National Park in Sangli and Kolhapur, the reserve will soon receive eight tigers — three from Tadoba-Andhari and five from Pench Tiger Reserve.
The Maharashtra government had earlier requested the Centre to allow relocation of tigers from other reserves to Sahyadri to stabilise its population.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has now approved this proposal, confirmed Ben Clement, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Maharashtra Wildlife Department.
Although the Sahyadri reserve already has tiger presence, their numbers have remained inconsistent despite rich prey density, dense forests, and suitable habitat. Authorities hope that the addition of eight new tigers will help strengthen the population gradually.
The ministry has issued strict guidelines for the relocation process, including ensuring minimum distress to the captured animals, providing veterinary support, and carrying out the mission under the close supervision of the state forest department. Post-relocation, continuous monitoring will be mandatory, with quarterly reports submitted to the Centre. Any lapses could lead to revocation of the permission.
