With incidents of human-leopard encounters increasing in sugarcane-growing areas of Maharashtra, the state sugar commissioner has directed all cooperative and private sugar mills to take immediate safety precautions during the ongoing harvesting season, reports The Hindustan Times.
In a circular issued on October 10, Sugar Commissioner Sanjay Kolte instructed mill managements to work closely with local forest officials to ensure the safety of sugarcane cutters and other field workers who spend long hours near sugarcane fields.
The directive asks mills to locate labour colonies at a safe distance from sugarcane fields wherever possible. In areas where workers must stay nearby, mills have been told to install temporary fencing and provide adequate lighting. Supervisors are to be appointed to watch over children when both parents are working, and basic safety and care facilities must be arranged.
Kolte said mills have been asked to conduct awareness drives before harvesting begins and to install fencing, lighting, and other preventive measures in areas known for leopard activity. He emphasised that protecting the lives of sugarcane workers remains a top priority.
The order follows alerts from the Deputy Conservator of Forests (Junnar division) and the Chief Conservator of Forests (Pune), who have reported increased leopard movement in Pune’s sugarcane belts. Officials said mature sugarcane fields offer dense cover and water sources that attract leopards seeking shelter and prey such as wild boars and hares.
Forest teams will continue patrolling vulnerable zones and assist mills in spreading awareness. Workers have been urged not to sleep outdoors and to move in groups during early mornings and late evenings.
Kolte said close coordination between sugar mills and the forest department is key to avoiding mishaps. He added that proactive safety measures can help prevent tragedies and protect both people and wildlife.
