Images of strategically positioned langur cut-outs to prevent potential monkey disturbances during the G20 Summit hosted in the national capital, Delhi, have emerged on the internet and quickly gained widespread attention. Further information can be found below.
New Delhi: In preparation for the G20 Summit taking place in the national capital, city officials are implementing measures to utilize langur replicas and strategically place simian cut-outs at key locations. This initiative aims to deter monkeys, whose unchecked population has led to a surge in their presence throughout the city, including prominent areas like New Delhi’s Lutyens’ Delhi. These monkeys have been known to roam around, and instances of them attacking and biting people have been reported.
NDMC Takes Preventive Measures
To address this concern, both the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and the city government’s Forest Department have embarked on initiatives to prevent any monkey-related disruptions during the significant G20 summit scheduled from September 9-10.
A government official remarked, “All crucial locations, including the primary summit venue and accommodations for foreign dignitaries and delegates, are being safeguarded to ensure that the presence of monkey groups is minimized during the event.”
Satish Upadhyay, the NDMC vice chairman, explained that the municipal body plans to deploy 30-40 skilled individuals capable of mimicking langur vocalizations to dissuade monkeys. “These skilled individuals are officially registered with us, and they have been engaged due to their proficiency in using langur-like sounds to drive away monkeys. Each one will be stationed at delegate hotels and areas frequently visited by monkeys,” he elaborated.
Strategic Placement of Cut-Outs
According to an official, more than twelve langur cut-outs have been strategically positioned in areas highly affected by monkey presence, such as Sardar Patel Marg.
The official further explained that the monkeys have caused damage to plants and flowers that were meticulously incorporated into the horticultural design for the G20 Summit, a collaborative effort by various agencies.
Revamping of Sardar Patel Marg
Sardar Patel Marg, serving as a vital link between New Delhi and the IGI airport, has undergone a rejuvenation process. This initiative has encompassed the placement of statues, fountains, street furnishings, and an abundance of lush greenery and blooming flora. The transformation has been undertaken with the awareness that all summit delegates and dignitaries will traverse this route, as highlighted by officials.
Addressing Monkey Menace with Consideration
In an effort to manage the issue of monkeys in a humane manner, plans are in motion to offer nourishment such as fruits and vegetables at specified points along the ridge. This measure aims to prevent monkeys from venturing into human settlements in search of sustenance.
The city has been grappling with the challenge of monkey presence for a considerable period. Previous methods like employing langur to deter them, sterilization, and relocating them to the Asola wildlife sanctuary have not come to fruition, citing various reasons. These include opposition from animal activists who express concerns about potential cruelty towards the animals, as pointed out by experts.
