Tourists can now enjoy cheetah sightings inside Kuno, two released in safari zone

BHOPAL: Madhya Pradesh forest officials have marked a historic moment in wildlife conservation by releasing two male cheetahs, named Agni and Vayu, from enclosures into the wilderness of Kuno National Park. The decision, aimed at enhancing the park's allure, coincided with the scheduled inauguration of the Kuno Forest Festival, which was anticipated to be graced by the state's new chief minister, Dr Mohan Yadav. However, Dr Yadav cancelled his visit following the demise of the Kuwaiti Emir.

Officials overseeing the cheetah release affirmed the good health of both animals. These two cheetahs were strategically released in the Ahera tourism zone, a location designated for tourists to witness these majestic creatures during safari visits.

The Kuno Forest Festival, scheduled from December 17 to 21, is set to spotlight the cultural heritage and natural splendor of the region. Officials express enthusiasm, envisioning this annual event to become a significant fixture on the state's cultural calendar. Notably, this festival underscores the importance of Kuno National Park, emphasizing objectives encompassing environment, tourism, wildlife, and the crucial mission of cheetah conservation.

The chief conservator of forest (tiger project) issued an official statement highlighting the release, emphasizing its significance for visitors to the national park.

The decision to release the cheetahs followed the careful monitoring of fifteen cheetahs, including seven males, seven females, and a cub, housed in enclosures at Kuno National Park since August. Supervised by a team of veterinarians, the cheetahs were acclimatizing to their new environment.

Recently, the Steering Committee for Project Cheetah granted an in-principle approval for the gradual release of cheetahs into the wild. Presently, 14 cheetahs remain within enclosures at Kuno, poised for phased release after thorough evaluations by experts. The Steering Committee, after discussions with forest officers, expressed satisfaction with the operational strategy. The Committee's Chairman collated comprehensive details from officers and delineated the forthcoming action plan, as confirmed by reliable sources.

This endeavor signifies a critical step in the concerted efforts to reintroduce and conserve cheetahs in the wild, showcasing collaborative efforts between wildlife authorities and conservation stakeholders.