NEW DELHI: An 11-year-old boy was killed after being attacked by a lion while climbing the Girnar Hills with his family in India’s western state of Gujarat, according to Indian media reports.
The incident reportedly occurred near the 50th step of the Girnar Hill trail, where the child was accompanying his family on the climb when a lion suddenly emerged and attacked him.
According to media reports, the animal dragged the boy into a nearby forest despite the presence of hundreds of pilgrims in the area, causing panic among visitors.
Police said a large-scale search and rescue operation was launched immediately after the incident was reported. During the search, authorities recovered parts of the child’s body approximately 100 meters from the scene of the attack.
The recovered remains were sent for forensic examination as part of the investigation.
Officials said a lion suspected of carrying out the attack was captured within about four hours of the incident. As a precautionary measure, two other lions seen in the surrounding area were also captured and transferred to Sakkarbaug Zoo for veterinary examination and observation.
According to officials from the Forest Department, the suspected lion vomited during its medical examination, and the vomit reportedly contained human body parts, which are being examined as part of the investigation.
Investigators have also collected paw prints, drag marks, and other physical evidence from the scene to help determine the exact circumstances of the attack.
Forest and wildlife authorities are continuing their investigation to confirm whether the captured lion was responsible for the fatal incident and to assess any additional safety measures required in the area.
Lion attacks on humans are relatively rare but can occur in areas where wildlife habitats overlap with routes frequently used by residents, pilgrims, and tourists. Authorities often advise visitors to remain alert and follow safety guidelines when traveling through wildlife habitats.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about visitor safety around the Girnar Hills, a popular religious and tourist destination that attracts large numbers of pilgrims throughout the year. Local authorities are expected to review safety arrangements and wildlife management measures following the tragedy.
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