A 12-year-old boy was tragically killed in a lion attack while ascending the steps of Girnar Hill in Gujarat on Saturday morning. Officials reported that this incident occurred at a well-known pilgrimage site in Junagadh and marks the ninth such attack on humans in the state within the past 46 days. The victim, identified as Mayur Singh from Modaj village in Kheda district, was climbing Girnar with his family at the time of the attack.

The family had commenced their ascent at approximately 5:45 am after spending the night near the pilgrimage area. Upon reaching just about 50 steps, a lion emerged from the adjacent forest and attacked Mayur, who was holding his uncle’s hand. The animal reportedly dragged him into the underbrush before any family member or bystander could react, resulting in a highly distressing situation.

Search Operations and Lion Capture

In response to the attack, forest department officials, police, and rescue teams quickly mobilised to the scene to initiate a search operation. Efforts led to the recovery of the boy’s shoes, clothing, and partial remains scattered throughout the forested area. Deputy Conservator of Forests Akshay Joshi indicated that initial investigations suggested that the lions were trying to cross the area when one of them attacked the child.

Approximately 60 to 70 personnel from the Junagadh Forest Division, Social Forestry Department, and the Sasan rescue team were deployed in the extensive search efforts. Three lions suspected to have been involved in the tragic event were tranquillised and relocated to Sakkarbaug Zoo for medical assessment. Preliminary veterinary reports indicated the presence of human remains in the vomit of one of the lions, while various body parts of the victim were found at multiple locations within the forest.

Officials confirmed that the victim’s family would receive Rs 10 lakh in compensation in line with the state policy that addresses fatalities caused by wildlife attacks, providing a measure of financial support during this difficult period.

Public Safety Concerns Raised

The incident has raised significant alarm among locals and the victim’s family, who have voiced concerns about sightings of lions near the staircase in the days prior to the attack. They highlighted issues related to inadequate lighting and security measures, stating that poor visibility during early morning hours made it challenging for pilgrims to spot wildlife in the vicinity.

In light of the tragic event, authorities temporarily suspended access to the Girnar steps, with plans to reopen the pilgrimage route following a thorough inspection by the forest department. The department also announced intentions to formulate a special safety plan for pilgrims, which will include deploying additional personnel and evaluating a proposal to install fencing along nearly 2,000 steps of the Girnar route, in collaboration with the district administration.

This incident underscores the need for enhanced safety measures at pilgrimage sites, particularly concerning wildlife interactions, as pilgrims utilise these routes frequently for spiritual journeys.

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