Kiraksal-Kukudwad grassland region to be declared a conservation reserve

The article published on May 13, 2026, reports that the Satara forest department has initiated steps to declare the Kiraksal-Kukudwad grassland region in Maandesh as a conservation reserve to protect its biodiversity, native grassland ecosystem, and wildlife. It notes the involvement of DCF Amol Satpute, references the May 8 meeting, and outlines the proposed conservation plan including grassland restoration, wildlife monitoring, a leopard census, and eco-tourism initiatives. The piece also mentions plans for a coffee-table book and specialised staff training, as well as discussions about wildlife safari concepts and ecological safeguards during infrastructure development.

A meeting held on May 8, 2026, discussed the conservation roadmap for Kiraksal-Kukudwad grassland. Representatives from the Kiraksal Wildlife Conservation Project presented the ecological significance of Maandesh, highlighted the need for habitat protection, and discussed forming an expert committee to facilitate the declaration as a conservation reserve. The meeting also covered concerns about a proposed highway through Kukudwad reserved forest, planned grassland restoration, wildlife monitoring, a leopard census, potential eco-tourism, and capacity-building workshops for forest staff. A coffee-table book project was proposed as part of outreach.

A Hindustan Times report published on April 9, 2026, describes growing efforts to protect Kiraksal's grassland habitat and wolf population as part of the Kiraksal wildlife conservation project.