The Thane forest department has taken a significant step in the fight against the worrying rise in illicit wildlife trafficking and the keeping of wild animals as pets by forming a committee of honorary wildlife wardens and department officials. This effort attempts to address the wildlife crime crisis through improved coordination, effective information sharing and the adoption of prompt and appropriate actions, while also attempting to increase awareness of the problem.

Recent shocking occurrences such as the recovery of a crocodile from a Dadar swimming pool and the spotting of a large python at a Mumbai housing society have highlighted the need for such action. The nine-member committee was formed on October 6 and the divisional forest officer of the vigilance department of Thane forest department circle has been made its chairman. The panel includes four range forest officials, three honorary wildlife wardens and an inspector from the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, Mumbai.