10 January,2016 01:05 PM IST | | Ranjeet Jadhav
Thane Forest Department demands for them after camera traps show nine leopards in the area, as reported by mid-day
The Thane Forest Department (FD) authorities have been trying to get speed barriers installed along the internal roads that wind through Aarey, in order to prevent wild animals from being run over, but with little success.
Motorists accelerating while using the roads have led to an increase in traffic congestion and road kills. File pic for representation
Also read: Activists demand wildlife corridors, more speed breakers inside Aarey
Now that there is evidence of the area being home to nine leopards, the FD is hoping the BMC is spurred into action. On January 9, mid-day had carried a report (Hey MMRDA, Aarey is a forest and it has leopards. Here's proof) along with photographs from the Thane Forest Department's recent camera trapping showing nine leopards roaming in the area, proving that Aarey does support wildlife.
Also read: Aarey authorities devise new formula to stop road kill
Chief Conservator of Forest, KP Singh said, "We will soon write to the BMC and Public Works Department highlighting the need for barriers. Now that the official report has been submitted to us, we are optimistic that action will be taken."
