Facing a sharp rise in human-monkey conflict across the city, forest authorities in Ahmedabad have initiated an unprecedented exercise to scientifically assess monkey populations and develop a long-term urban wildlife management strategy.

Officials say the decision follows growing complaints of attacks, property damage and frequent sightings of monkeys and langurs inside residential neighbourhoods, signalling what they describe as an emerging urban ecological challenge, Vibes of India reported.

The Gujarat forest department has begun a detailed pre-census survey aimed at understanding population patterns, mapping conflict hotspots and analysing behavioural changes among monkeys. The initiative seeks to move away from the existing reactive rescue-based system toward a structured, data-driven approach to wildlife management.

Authorities attribute much of the problem to the widespread practice of feeding monkeys around temples, housing societies, markets and public spaces. What was earlier viewed as an act of devotion or charity has, officials say, unintentionally increased aggression and dependence on humans.

“Once monkeys begin linking humans with food, they lose fear and become increasingly bold,” a senior official said.

“That leads to attacks, home intrusions and nuisance behaviour.”

Under the first phase of the exercise, areas under the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation have been divided into zones and residents are being asked to participate in a 27-point survey circulated online. The questionnaire seeks information on troop sizes, feeding habits, frequency of encounters, waste management conditions, movement routes and nuisance levels in different localities.

Based on survey responses, authorities will conduct a trial census to finalise the most accurate counting method before launching a citywide enumeration.

The project is being implemented by the Ahmedabad Social Forestry Circle under researcher Deepa Gavli, following a proposal by Deputy Conservator of Forests Minal Jani that received approval from the state forest department.

Officials have already identified at least 198 locations where monkey activity has become a recurring concern. Areas such as Bodakdev, Vastrapur, Navrangpura, Thaltej, Bopal, Ghuma, Ambawadi, Paldi, Shahibaug, Chandkheda, Kubernagar, Naroda, Narol, Sabarmati, Bilasiya, Maninagar and Asarwa have reported frequent incidents ranging from monkeys entering homes and snatching belongings to damaging property and triggering panic among residents.

Alongside the survey, enforcement measures have been intensified. Forest officials have warned that feeding monkeys or langurs constitutes an offence under the Wildlife Protection Act, carrying a fine of Rs 25,000 for first-time violations and possible imprisonment for repeat offences. Authorities say uncontrolled feeding has disrupted natural foraging behaviour and encouraged animals to cluster within densely populated urban spaces.

Officials also acknowledged broader civic implications as Ahmedabad prepares to host major national and international events. Instances have been reported where Metro services crossing the Sabarmati River stretch slowed operations or sounded horns to disperse monkeys from tracks and nearby structures.

Chief Conservator of Forests K. Ramesh, serving as the project’s nodal officer, said the census will generate critical information including population size, breeding trends, gender ratios, seasonal movement routes, roosting areas and high-conflict zones. The data will guide future rescue operations, deployment planning, capture-and-release measures and habitat management policies.

Authorities believe the initiative represents a significant shift in addressing urban wildlife challenges, aiming not merely to count monkeys but to restore balance between expanding urban life and the ecological systems that continue to exist within it.