Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The much-anticipated Cheetah project, launched in 2022 with big expectations, is facing a lukewarm response from tourists.
Although two cheetahs, Agni and Vayu, have been roaming free in Kuno’s open jungle since December 7, there hasn’t been the rush many had hoped for.
Currently, only 18 to 20 tourists visit Kuno on a daily basisóan underwhelming turnout compared to the thousands flocking to the state’s other tiger reserves.
Despite the global attention the project received, the enthusiasm to spot these big cats in their new home seems to be lacking.
Forest officials said that even when sighting of the cheetahs happen, often just once a week, it fails to draw in large crowds.
The slow pace is understandable, as Kuno National Parkís Cheetah project is still in its infancy, unlike the well-established tiger reserves that have been drawing tourists for decades. Before the cheetah project began, Kuno was not a popular tourist destination.
However, the past two years have seen a modest rise in footfall.
Last year, the park saw its highest tourist turnout in history, though it still remains a far cry from the bustling crowds at other national parks. Field Director of Kuno National Park, Uttam Kumar Sharma, is hopeful that as more cheetahs are released into the wild, the visibility of these majestic animals will increase, drawing more visitors.
“As more cheetahs are released, their sightings will improve, and naturally, the footfall will rise,” he said. Currently, Kuno is home to 12 adult cheetahs and 12 cubs, with two adults in a free-range area.
