Arrow-Struck Monkey Suspected Victim of Poaching Near Mumbai
Why this is here: The use of a steel arrow, identified by experts as archery equipment, suggests a deliberate act beyond typical hunting methods and points to potential organized activity within the protected forest area.
Rescuers found a monkey with a steel arrow lodged in its back near Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) in Thane, Maharashtra on Friday. The Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare (RAWW) rescued the injured animal and a veterinarian performed surgery. The monkey remains in critical condition.
SGNP officials stated the territory range forest officer is investigating the incident. Environmentalists believe the arrow suggests a professional archer fired it, possibly as part of a poaching attempt or to deter the monkey from entering specific areas.
The incident raises concerns about illegal establishments operating within the park’s Yeoor range. This range includes stud farms and archery training grounds, which violate national park regulations. Officials plan an urgent meeting to address illegal activity and formulate a plan for stricter enforcement within the Yeoor Eco-Sensitive Zone.