National Wildlife Board rejects proposal to widen road through Gir Sanctuary

Ahmedabad: The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has rejected a proposal to widen a stretch of the Bamansa–Jamvala road inside Gir Sanctuary, citing risks to the fragile ecosystem that shelters the Asiatic lion. The plan, which involved diverting 1.30 hectares of forest land to expand State Highway 98, had been cleared by the State Board for Wildlife and supported by the state government, but was turned down by the NBWL in its 82nd meeting.

The committee noted that Gir is a critical habitat where road widening would fragment the compact ecosystem, disturb wildlife movement, and increase threats such as traffic and fire hazards. While disallowing expansion, the board permitted only strengthening of the existing road under strict conditions, including daytime repair work, no explosives, and adherence to current traffic rules.

Officials said the decision was a setback for the state board, which overlooked the ecological risks. Conservationists stressed that long-term alternatives, such as the previously proposed 269-km ring road with flyovers and underpasses, should be revived to reduce pressure on the lion habitat while maintaining connectivity.