Disciplinary Action for Cheetah Care Incident
Authorities at Kuno National Park in India have initiated disciplinary measures against a forest worker after a video surfaced showing him providing water to a cheetah and her cubs. The incident, which has sparked widespread attention online, raises concerns about adherence to safety protocols designed to protect both wildlife and humans. Cheetahs, once extinct in India, were reintroduced to the park in 2022 as part of a significant conservation effort.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
The controversial video emerged on Sunday, capturing a forest worker pouring water into a metal pan for a cheetah named Jwala and her four cubs. The footage, which quickly went viral, shows the cheetahs approaching the pan to drink. According to park officials, the worker, who serves as a driver at the sanctuary, acted against established guidelines that restrict close interactions with the big cats to authorized personnel only.
Uttam Kumar Sharma, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, emphasized that while staff members may sometimes lure cheetahs back into the forest, only trained individuals are permitted to do so. “There are clear instructions to move away from cheetahs,” Sharma stated, reinforcing the importance of following safety protocols to prevent potential human-wildlife conflicts. The worker’s actions have prompted a review of current practices and a reminder of the risks involved in approaching these powerful animals.
Background on Cheetah Reintroduction Efforts
Cheetahs were declared extinct in India in 1952, marking a significant loss in the country’s biodiversity. In a groundbreaking move, 20 cheetahs were relocated from South Africa and Namibia to Kuno National Park between 2022 and 2023, marking the first intercontinental translocation of the species. This ambitious project aims to reestablish a viable population of cheetahs in India.
However, the reintroduction has faced challenges. Eight of the relocated cheetahs have died due to various causes, including kidney failure and injuries sustained during mating. These incidents have raised questions about the suitability of Kuno’s environment for the species. Experts involved in the project have expressed concerns regarding the management and monitoring of the cheetahs, suggesting that better veterinary care and record-keeping could have prevented some of these fatalities.
Community Concerns and Future Plans
The presence of cheetahs near village borders has created tension among local residents, particularly as the animals have been known to attack livestock. Reports indicate that some villagers have resorted to throwing stones at the cheetahs to protect their animals. In response, park officials are working to educate communities about coexisting with wildlife and minimizing conflicts.
Looking ahead, India is set to receive an additional 20 cheetahs from South Africa this year, with preparations already underway. Authorities are hopeful that these efforts will bolster the population and enhance the chances of survival for this iconic species in its native habitat. As the project continues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of both the cheetahs and the surrounding communities.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
