Pune: Wildlife Rapid Rescue Unit Launched In Maval To Strengthen Human Wildlife Conflict Management

Pune, February 9, 2026:
In a significant step towards effective management of rising human–wildlife conflict incidents in Pune district, the Wildlife Rapid Rescue Unit – Maval (WRRU) was formally inaugurated on February 5. The specialised unit has been established to ensure quick, scientific, and coordinated response to wildlife-related emergencies.

The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Ashish Thackeray, Conservator of Forests, Pune Forest Circle (IFS), who formally inaugurated the unit. The event was attended by Mahadev Mohite, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Pune (Territorial) (IFS), along with senior forest officials including Atul Jainak (ACF, Baramati), Vishal Chavan (ACF, Pune), Sheetal Rathod (ACF, Bhor), Honorary Wildlife Warden Pushkar Choubal, forest range officers, forest guards, staff members, representatives of various organisations, and other dignitaries.

Dedicated Infrastructure for Rapid Response

At the start of the programme, the main control room of the Wildlife Rapid Rescue Unit, rescue vehicles, and essential rescue equipment, including cages and handling tools, were formally inaugurated.

The introduction and concept note were presented by Mangesh Tate, Control Officer of WRRU and Assistant Conservator of Forests, who explained the need, vision, formation process, and operational framework of the unit. He emphasised that specially trained rescue teams are crucial for:

Timely response to human–wildlife conflict situations

Ensuring public safety
Protecting wildlife
Conducting rescue operations in a planned, scientific, and safe manner

Recognition and Equipment Distribution

Forest officers who have made significant contributions to human–wildlife conflict management, along with supporting institutions and individuals, were honoured during the event. Rescue equipment was also distributed to primary response teams to strengthen field operations.

Four Rapid Rescue Units Planned in Pune District

Speaking at the event, DCFO Mahadev Mohite announced that a total of four Wildlife Rapid Rescue Units will be established under the Pune Forest Division.

The Maval unit is the first to become operational
Upcoming units will be set up in Theur, Baramati–Daund, and Bhor

He stated that these units will enable faster, more efficient and coordinated responses to conflict incidents across different parts of Pune district.

Focus on Training and Safety

In his address, Ashish Thackeray, Conservator of Forests, Pune, highlighted the critical role of such rescue units in preventing human casualties and wildlife loss. He stressed the importance of regular, updated, and scientific training for forest officers and staff, stating that trained manpower ensures rescue operations are carried out in a safe, sensitive, and effective manner.

Tribute and Programme Highlights

During the programme, a tribute was paid to former Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Late Ajit Pawar, by the dignitaries present. Officials also inspected the rescue cages, vehicle fleet, and operational facilities, gaining first-hand information about the unit’s working system.

The programme was compered by Somnath Takwale, Forest Range Officer, Shirota, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Pratap Jagtap, Forest Range Officer, Paud.

Officials expressed confidence that the Wildlife Rapid Rescue Unit – Maval will play a crucial role in ensuring citizen safety while strengthening wildlife conservation efforts, enabling faster and more effective responses to human–wildlife conflict incidents in Maval taluka and surrounding regions.