In the meantime tourists can see lions at Devalia
Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, the only abode of the Asiatic, lion will remain close for four months for tourists from Monday onwards. The sanctuary is being closed for mating and breeding of mammals like lions.
"The Gir National Park, spread across 1,412 square km will remain close from June 16 till October 15. With monsoon already hit Gujarat coast and Gir Sanctuary witnessed first shower, breeding season for the wild animals begins. There has to be no outside disturbance during breeding season of fauna," said a senior forest official.
Besides, peaceful ambience to the wild animals, roads within the national park also deteriorates during monsoon, he said, adding, "There are chances of accidents too. Sometimes bridges get damage due to flooding rivers passing through the sanctuary and questions pertaining to safety of visitors arise. Even the Forest department starts maintenance work only in September as peak tourist season begins from November and continues till March-end."
There are eight routes to enter the Gir National Park, which have been barricaded and entry of vehicles have been banned. Not only for the majestic lions, but it's a breeding time for other animals too. It's growing time for the vegetation too, which feed herbivores. "It is also the best breeding time for leopards and peacocks," said Deputy Conservator of Forest (DCF) Sandeep Kumar.
As per the last census conducted in the year 2010, there are 411 big cats in the Gir area that include 97 males, 162 females and 152 cubs. Apart from lions, the Gir National Park is also home to other fauna including leopards, spotted deer, blue bull, wild boar, jackal, striped hyena, jungle cat, rusty spotted cat, porcupine, black-naped Indian hare as well as other mammals.
Despite closure of the national park, those who are planning to visit Gir forest will be able to see lions as Devalia Park known as Gir Interpretation Zone will be opened for the tourists, said a forest official. Devalia is the establishment developed in 412 hector land adjoining the national park in chain link fenced area. Regarded as 'Gir in nutshell' covering all habitat types and wildlife of Gir. The facility aimed at providing opportunity of viewing lions and other animals in their natural habitat within a short period of time.