Maha forest dept plans leopard safari at Trimbakeshwar & Yeola to boost tourism

Nashik: The state forest department has plans of setting up leopard safari projects at Trimbakeshwar and Yeola in Nashik district. This was planned to promote wildlife tourism and reduce human-leopard conflict.The proposal was discussed during a review meeting in the city on Wednesday, where forest minister Ganesh Naik directed officials to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for govt approval.According to forest officials, the proposed safari zones will be developed in large, fenced forest areas, offering a semi-natural habitat for leopards. The project will be a controlled wildlife experience, where visitors will be taken on guided tours in designated safari vehicles operated by the forest department.Range forest officer of Nashik West division, Sumit Nirmal, said the exact land parcels are yet to be finalised. "We are planning leopard safaris at Yeola and Trimbakeshwar. The area could be around 25 acres or more, but it will be finalised only after detailed site surveys," he said, adding that the DPR will soon be submitted to the state govt.Officials said leopards that are currently in captivity or rescued during conflict situations—such as straying into human settlements—will be rehabilitated in these safari zones. The move is expected to reduce the burden on rescue centres while also minimising incidents of human-wildlife conflict in the region.Unlike zoos, the safari will offer a more natural setting, though within a secured environment. The enclosures will have double-layer fencing in sensitive zones to ensure that animals remain within the defined area while maintaining safety standards.Visitors will travel in forest department vehicles, accompanied by trained staff or guides who will provide information on leopard behaviour and enforce safety norms. While sightings cannot be guaranteed due to the semi-natural conditions, officials said chances of spotting leopards will be higher compared to open forests.Emergency response teams and strict no-entry zones will also form part of the safari infrastructure to ensure both visitor and animal safety. Officials said the project is envisioned as a model that lies between a traditional zoo and a natural forest experience.