Rajkot: Alarmed by mounting threats to the Asiatic lion’s habitat, 38 environmentalist groups from across Gujarat will assemble on July 5 for a statewide conference in Jamnagar, aiming to counter mining plans, illegal resorts and disruptions to critical wildlife corridors in the Gir ecosystem.The “Save the Gir and Asiatic Lion Conference 2026” will be organised by the Navanagar Nature Club, bringing together environmental groups, wildlife experts and researchers to chart a collective response.“The conference aims to unite nature enthusiasts, environmental NGOs, wildlife experts, and researchers from across Gujarat to address the escalating threats to the Gir ecosystem, including proposed mining activities, illegal resorts, and the disruption of wildlife corridors,” said Vijay Jadeja, head of the Navanagar Nature Club.The meeting follows a representation submitted earlier this month by current and former members of the State Board of Wildlife, including Snehal Patel, Rohit Vyas and Bhushan Pandya. They flagged rapid commercialisation and alleged destruction within the Asiatic lion landscape.A key concern is the proposed diversion of 75 hectares of Babarkot reserve forest near Rajula for cement mining. “Official records indicate that this area is a permanent habitat for over 50 lions and is officially designated as an important lion corridor in the Gir management plan,” the representation stated. Activists warned that the project could involve felling more than 5,500 trees.They also cited permissions granted to a popular folk artist to re-enter Lilapani Ness as a Maldhari, despite a similar proposal being rejected in 2023. Wildlife advocates said this contradicts the state’s policy to resettle Maldharis outside the Gir Sanctuary and has triggered over 50 similar applications, potentially straining the fragile ecosystem.In another alleged violation, activists claimed forest land is being diverted to provide access to a commercial resort in Dhari taluka. They said the resort operates on land approved only for residential use and has been given illegal access through reserve forest land.“We have formed the group and are discussing these issues. To decide the further line of action, we have planned to meet face to face,” Jadeja said.
