Maharashtra Records 22 Tiger and 40 Leopard Deaths in Just Four Months: State Assembly Informed

Mumbai – Maharashtra witnessed a staggering 22 tiger and 40 leopard deaths in the first four months of 2024, state forest minister Ganesh Naik informed the legislative assembly on Friday. The report has triggered concerns over the safety of big cats in the state, even as conservation efforts show mixed results.

This latest count raises the total number of tiger deaths since 2022 to 129, highlighting the growing threat to one of India’s most iconic and endangered species. The minister attributed the deaths to natural causes, accidents involving vehicles and trains, and illegal hunting.
 

Breakdown of Wildlife Deaths in Early 2024
 

In a detailed written response to queries raised by legislators, Naik stated that between January and April 2024, Maharashtra recorded the death of:

1. 22 tigers:

• 13 due to natural causes
• 4 from electric shock
• 4 due to road and rail accidents
• 1 cause unknown

2. 40 leopards:

• 3 killed by hunters
• 8 died naturally
• 20 lost to vehicle and train accidents
• 9 causes yet to be determined

Legislators including Dhananjay Munde, Santosh Danve, Manoj Jamsutkar, and Sudhir Mungantiwar raised concerns over increasing human-wildlife conflict, questioning the measures taken by the government to safeguard these animals from such frequent fatalities.

Tiger Deaths Since 2022: A Grim Trend
 

The data presented shows that Maharashtra has recorded 129 tiger deaths between January 2022 and April 2024. Investigations into 107 of these deaths are ongoing, with final reports awaited. The forest minister maintained that despite the deaths, the overall tiger population has increased, crediting the state’s conservation programs.

However, the numbers paint a complex picture. According to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), 14 tiger deaths occurred across India in just the first 20 days of January 2024, with Maharashtra accounting for the highest toll—8 tigers. Officials point out that most of these deaths occurred outside protected areas, making the case for stronger monitoring of buffer zones and vulnerable corridors.

Hunting and Accidents: Major Causes of Concern

While natural deaths accounted for the majority of tiger fatalities, accidents and illegal poaching remain significant challenges. Train and road accidents, along with electrocution, are becoming increasingly common in areas where highways and railway lines cut through forest habitats.

Naik acknowledged these threats and mentioned that the forest department has been investing in mitigation strategies, including awareness programs, habitat management, and strengthening patrolling in sensitive zones.

Leopard Deaths: Urbanization Takes a Toll

The death of 40 leopards within four months raises red flags about the growing man-animal conflict, especially in areas bordering urban settlements. Leopards are more adaptable than tigers and often venture into human-dominated areas, increasing their risk of getting hit by vehicles or coming into contact with electric fencing.

Experts warn that expanding infrastructure, shrinking forest cover, and poor enforcement of wildlife protection laws are contributing factors behind the increase in both tiger and leopard deaths.

NTCA Report: Population Growth, But at What Cost?
 

Interestingly, the Status of Tigers in India report released by the NTCA earlier this year indicated an increase in tiger population and sightings in Maharashtra’s Sahyadri Tiger Reserve. This suggests that conservation measures are working in certain regions.

However, the simultaneous rise in fatalities has posed a new challenge for the forest department—ensuring tiger and leopard safety beyond the boundaries of protected reserves. Officials have emphasized the need to create wildlife corridors, install speed breakers and warning signage near forest zones, and relocate human settlements where possible.

Forest Department Under Pressure to Act
 

The mounting death toll has prompted environmental activists and lawmakers to demand immediate action from the state government. Many are calling for:

• Installation of wildlife crossings on highways
• Enhanced surveillance and patrolling teams in high-risk areas
• Stricter implementation of anti-poaching laws
• Deployment of camera traps and AI-based monitoring systems

Forest minister Ganesh Naik reassured the assembly that the government remains committed to protecting wildlife and is actively exploring technology-driven solutions to curb these fatalities.

Conclusion

While Maharashtra has seen a promising growth in its tiger population, the surge in deaths—particularly outside protected areas—signals an urgent need for holistic, long-term strategies. Balancing development with conservation, enhancing wildlife safety infrastructure, and ensuring community participation are key to safeguarding these majestic animals.

If proactive steps are not taken now, Maharashtra risks undoing decades of hard-earned gains in wildlife conservation.