In what seems like good news for animal lovers, the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) has passed an order stating that the entry of elephants in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane has been prohibited.u00a0On October 28, 2013, Additional PCCF passed a circular in which it has been clearly stated that the elephant is listed at S. No-2 in Schedule- 1 of the Wildlife (protection) Amendment Act 2002. The circular, a copy of which is with SUNDAY MiD DAY, states: ‘Elephants are often brought within the city limit of Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane. These elephants are brought into the city to give joy rides, beg, entertain guests at weddings, act in serials and movies, bless and entertain guests at functions in temples and political rallies. All of these activities carried out by elephants are in contravention with the Wildlife Protection Act.’

A senior Forest Department official told SUNDAY MiD DAY, “Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane are densely populated urban areas. Elephants are wild animals and are ill- suited to these places. Given the external condition of densely populated urban environments, elephants in the city are prone to getting agitated easily. As a result, elephants can attack human beings.u00a0This is a direct risk to public safety and life, so, the decision of prohibiting elephants from entering these areas was necessary.”