Maharashtra Forest Department Captures 35 Monkeys Ahead of Dhwajarohan Ceremony
In preparation for the Dhwajarohan ceremony at the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, Maharashtra's Forest Department has captured 35 monkeys to ensure safety.
The Dhwajarohan ceremony is set for October 31 at 12:02 PM in Trimbakeshwar.
The Forest Department's monkey capture initiative aims to reduce incidents of monkey bites, which totaled 512 in the past year and a half.
A team of 15 forest guards is conducting the operation, which will continue until October 29.
The Maharashtra Forest Department is actively engaged in capturing monkeys in Nashik as part of preparations for the upcoming Dhwajarohan ceremony for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela. Scheduled for October 31 at 12:02 PM in Trimbakeshwar, this significant event will be attended by prominent figures including President Droupadi Murmu and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. To ensure the safety of attendees and the smooth conduct of rituals, the department has initiated a focused monkey-catching operation.
The decision to capture monkeys stems from a growing concern over monkey-related incidents in Trimbakeshwar, a site known for housing one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Over the last 18 months, the local municipal hospital has reported 512 cases of monkey bites, prompting the Forest Department to take action. The ongoing operation is designed to mitigate the risk of such incidents during the religious festivities.
According to Forest Department official Shekhar Devkar, the operation is being conducted in key areas including the Brahmagiri foothills, Kushavarta Tirtha, and various temples. A total of 35 rhesus macaques have already been captured using humane and scientific methods. The capture efforts are expected to conclude by October 29, just two days before the ceremony.
Devkar noted that local authorities had formally requested assistance in managing the monkey population to prevent disruptions during the Dhwajarohan ceremony. He emphasized that the captured monkeys would be safely released back into their natural habitat following the event, ensuring minimal long-term impact on the local wildlife.
In light of the ongoing efforts, Devkar has advised visitors to refrain from feeding monkeys, as this can lead to aggressive behavior and disrupt their natural instincts. He reminded the public that feeding wild animals is prohibited under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act. As the ceremony approaches, the Forest Department remains committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all participants.
