Moving towards the third phase of cheetah reintroduction project, authorities have started discussion to bring 12 cheetahs from South Africa in January 2024. Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary situated in Mandsaur and Neemuch districts is targeted to prepare for cheetahs by December. According to reports, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has started talks with the officials in South Africa to translocate more cheetahs in third phase. Date to bring cheetah will be finalised by September end. Earlier, eight cheetahs were brought from Namibia in September 2022 and 12 cheetahs were brought from South Africa in February 2023. Out of this five adult cheetahs and one cub (out of four cubs born in India) died of various reasons. Currently, there are 16 cheetahs, including one cub, is surviving at Kuno National Park. Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over 368 sq km of area is being fenced from three sides to secure the movement of cheetahs. Fourth side of the sanctuary includes Gandhi Sagar dam with high level of water. Earlier, there was dispute on forest land regarding encroachment. The dispute is now being resolved to do channel fencing in the area. Enclosures are also being prepared at Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary to keep the cheetahs for a month.