Sun Feb 09 14:43:57 UTC 2025: ## Madhya Pradesh Prepares for Cheetah Arrival at Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary

**Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh, February 9, 2025** – The Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh is nearing completion of preparations to welcome six to eight cheetahs from South Africa. These big cats will join the existing cheetah population at Kuno National Park, marking a significant step in India’s Project Cheetah, aimed at reintroducing the species after their extinction in 1952.

Six specially designed quarantine enclosures, each 30×50 meters, have been built, complete with solar electric fences, elevated resting areas, shaded shelters, and water sources tailored to cheetahs’ needs. Two additional treatment enclosures are also ready near a dedicated hospital wing. Advanced surveillance technology, including cameras and a 24/7 monitoring control room, will track the cheetahs’ health and behavior. Safety measures, such as remotely operated gates and special prey delivery cages, have been implemented to protect both animals and staff.

The sanctuary’s selection was based on its savanna-like habitat, resembling the cheetahs’ natural environment. Officials cite local legends and historical artwork depicting spotted animals as evidence of cheetahs’ historical presence in the region. However, the reintroduction is not without challenges. A recent assessment revealed a shortfall in the prey base within the 64 sq km soft-release enclosure, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of the cheetah population. Further, the relocation of nearly 280 families from Karanpura village to make way for the project has led to concerns about adequate compensation and the impact on local livelihoods, particularly regarding access to water and grazing land for livestock. The presence of leopards, some of which have re-entered the enclosure after relocation, also poses a potential threat. While coexistence is considered possible with sufficient resources, the challenges of prey base management and mitigating human-wildlife conflict remain key concerns. The cheetahs are expected to arrive before the summer heat intensifies, with a formal date yet to be announced.

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