Madhya Pradesh forest department plans security cover after cheetah killing in Morena
The department aims to strengthen surveillance and protection across the cheetah landscape following the death of a 19-month-old male cheetah.
The Madhya Pradesh forest department is developing a comprehensive security plan to protect cheetahs that venture beyond protected areas, according to the Free Press Journal. This follows the recent killing of a 19-month-old male cheetah in the territorial forest area of Morena.
Principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife) Samita Rajora said the department is working on the safety plan to ensure protection across the entire cheetah landscape. Forest department sources stated the plan will include additional patrolling teams, stricter security arrangements, and modern equipment to improve surveillance.
The cheetah landscape spans eight districts in Madhya Pradesh, including Gwalior, Shivpuri, Sheopur, Ashoknagar, Guna, and Rajgarh, and seven districts in Rajasthan. Field director of Kuno National Park Uttam Sharma said local communities must develop a sense of pride and ownership for the long-term survival of the animals.
Sharma noted that cheetahs face challenges when moving into open areas, including the struggle to survive independently and threats from people. Currently, 13 cheetahs are roaming in open areas, and approximately 22 cubs are expected to be ready for release into the wild in the next four to five months.
An investigation into the Morena killing is reportedly nearing a breakthrough, with three suspects questioned over the last two to three days. A senior forest officer said Chief Minister Mohan Yadav directed officials to solve the case quickly and take strict action against those responsible.
The presence of cattle camps in territorial forests has been identified as a challenge, as operators often possess illegal firearms. The 19-month-old cheetah was shot with an illegal firearm in Morena.