Centre gives go-ahead for wildlife project in Anandpur Sahib

According to sources, nearly 20 lions and 80 deer will be released in this Nature Park. Some lions will also be brought in from Gir Forests, Gujarat. A senior official told The Indian Express, "The aim is to restore the ecological balance and provide an alternate home to lions and deer to save them from extinction in the wake of infectious diseases. To make tourists aware, we propose to have an interpretation centre (the first of its kind in Punjab) comprising an audio-visual centre, a library and a graphic gallery in the vicinity of the safaris."

Officials added that most infrastructural work will be completed within the first year and will cost about Rs 1.6 crore. Of the 300-acre area of Jhajjar and Bachauli, 100 acres will be given to the lion safari, while the deer safari will come up in the remaining area.

As desired by the visiting experts, brick walls and concrete pillars will be built round the safaris to ensure the safety of translocated animals. Nearly 50 hectares of land will have to be planted to provide proper food and cover to the animals. Said an official, "Apart from Eucalyptus and Kher, we will have Ficus, Butea, Amaltas, Neem, and Bahera. This is to acclimatise the animals to the surroundings." There will also be a provision of feeding grounds. Since animals will be brought in from various zoos of the state, they will be stall-fed.

Translocation will begin only after the essential infrastructure has been provided. According to sources, some animals will be released by March 31 next year. The species of deer to be translocated will include Sambar, Cheetal, Hog Deer and Barking Deer. Translocation will be done after seeking permission from the State government and the Central Zoo Authority of India.

It was informed that a full-fledged veterinary complex will come up in the park. "Because animals will be shifted from various zoos of the state, there are chances of their being sick or injured. So, a good team of doctors is essential. We will also post a DFO, a wildlife warden, three inspectors, four wildlife guards, apart from other Class IV employees to look after the park," an official said.

Officials claim that with the completion of the project, the area will present a replica of the forests of old days. "It will be a major tourist attraction, especially during Holla Mohalla," said an official.