- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Wed, 25 Jun 2025 04:00 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In a significant move to mitigate the growing incidents of human-wildlife conflict, the Uttar Pradesh government is setting up four state-of-the-art wildlife rescue centres across the state. These centres are being established in Meerut, Pilibhit, Maharajganj, and Chitrakoot, targeting regions most affected by encounters with tigers, leopards, and other aggressive wild animals.
Since such incidents are classified as natural disasters, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) will assist the Forest Department in operating the centres, including covering costs related to manpower and essential equipment.
The rescue centres are being developed at Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary (Meerut), Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Sohagibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary (Maharajganj), and Ranipur Wildlife Sanctuary (Chitrakoot). These facilities aim to serve key geographical regions such as Western UP, the Terai belt, Awadh, and Bundelkhand.
According to Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Anuradha Vemuri, the objective of these centres is to ensure both wildlife conservation and the safety of villagers living near forest areas. The centres will facilitate the safe capture, medical treatment, and rehabilitation of aggressive or injured animals.
The construction, carried out by Construction and Design Services (C\&DS), has been funded with a budget of Rs 57.20 crore approved by the state government. The facilities, which are nearly complete, are equipped with modern amenities, including accommodation units, treatment centres, quarantine zones, watchtowers, and training halls. Operations at the centres are expected to begin soon.
