Is Gir going the Sariska way

 
Gir Sanctuary is on the way as Sariska in Rajasthan, the heaven of tiger, the recent census shows. Wide spread poaching is the latest challenge for Gir sanctuary, it seems to hunted six lions in their den in the past 23 days, with skinned carcasses, missing claws and bones.
According to 2005 census, total number of living Asiatic Lions stands at 359. Nineteen lions have died since May 2005. Already marred by problems including widespread dispersion-with total 94 lions located in revenue area, staff shortage, in adequate equipment, open wells and electrifying fences - poaching is the latest challenging for Gir Sanctuary. Security too is one of the major concerns. As many as seven highways run into more than 100km a 15km meter gauge train tack and several roads pass through the sanctuary. Also entry to pilgrimage places like Kankai and Tulsishyam is unchecked.

(The New Indian Express, 3rd April, 2007)