Sasan Gir: Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Thursday visited Sasan Gir, where he undertook an early-morning jungle safari and witnessed lion sightings in the Gir forest.

During the safari, the Chief Minister observed lions roaming freely in their natural habitat and expressed delight after seeing several wildlife species. He visited the Keramba Thana range area, where he spotted lions at two different locations.

According to the 2025 population census, as many as 891 Asiatic lions currently inhabit Gir and the greater Saurashtra lion landscape.

The Chief Minister reviewed the multi-layered conservation initiatives being implemented for lion protection and encouraged forest personnel for their dedicated efforts.

At present, 13 safari routes are operational in the Gir Safari Park and adjoining areas for tourists. Officials said tourist footfall has increased following Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Gir on March 3 during the Wildlife Day celebrations, leading to enhanced employment opportunities for local communities.

Deputy Conservator of Forests, Sasan Gir, Prashant Tomar briefed the Chief Minister on the ongoing conservation measures undertaken by the Forest Department for lions and other wildlife. Senior forest officials were present during the Chief Minister’s visit.

Later in the day, the Chief Minister flagged off 183 specially equipped vehicles for forest personnel at Sasan Gir to strengthen conservation, protection, rescue, and rehabilitation operations.

The vehicles include 174 field bikes, six Bolero Campers, and three modified rescue vehicles, provided under various Forest Department projects. These vehicles will be deployed for patrolling, wildlife protection, and emergency rescue work across Gir, Greater Gir, the entire lion landscape, and other forest areas of the state.

Before the flag-off ceremony, the Chief Minister also visited the Forest Department’s rescue centre. Principal Secretary (Forest and Environment) Dr Vinod Rao, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Dr Jaipal Singh, and other senior officials were present on the occasion.

Officials stated that the addition of these vehicles will significantly enhance the operational efficiency of forest field staff and strengthen wildlife rescue and protection mechanisms across Gujarat. DeshGujarat