Unauthorized entry into the ecologically sensitive Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary (BWS) in Khanapur taluk continues unabated, sparking concern among conservationists. Despite a strict entry ban, several videos have emerged showing people picnicking at Vajrapoha waterfalls, cooking non-vegetarian food, and engaging in leisure activities inside the protected forest.
On January 7, reporters reported a startling case where 12–15 police personnel from Khanapur allegedly entered the sanctuary without permission, lit a fire, cooked food, and held a liquor party in the sensitive forest area. Although Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre directed the department on January 16 to take prompt action, sources claim no action was taken against the involved officers.
Despite this directive, trespassing into the sanctuary’s eco-sensitive zone continues. Numerous videos show people bathing under the Vajrapoha waterfalls—classified as an Eco-Sensitive Zone—and taking selfies in prohibited areas. Locals report that most visitors are gaining access via Jamboti village, within the Khanapur forest range. “The situation is disturbing. People are entering a protected forest, cooking, dancing, and disrupting wildlife. This indicates a serious failure in forest patrolling, especially by the Khanapur Range Forest Officer,” an environmentalist said anonymously.
Additional violations include images showing people fishing in the Mahadayi River near Krishnapur village, also inside sanctuary limits. Responding to reporters’ inquiries, Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) Maria Krishtu Raja D stated, “No official reports of illegal entry have come in from Vajrapoha or Bhimgad. All tourists and bikers are being turned away at the Chapoli checkpost. An FIR was filed in January against those involved in the earlier incident.” Addressing the viral videos, the DCF added, “It seems the individuals are relatives of Chapoli village residents, located inside the forest. They accessed the waterfalls through an internal route for a local religious gathering. We are investigating and will take action against any rule violators.”
