Amreli, Gujarat: A lioness succumbed to injuries sustained in a train collision in Gujarat’s Amreli district, marking the third big cat fatality this month due to similar incidents. The latest incident occurred on January 20 when the lioness was struck by a passenger train in Rajula taluka. Despite efforts to save her, the lioness passed away during treatment at Shakkarbaug zoo in Junagadh district.
Earlier this month, on January 3, another lioness was injured by a goods train near Vijapadi village in Gir (East) forest division. After receiving initial treatment, she was transferred to Shakkarbaug zoo but unfortunately succumbed to her injuries on January 11. Subsequently, on January 12, a lion lost its life after being hit by a train near Amrutvel village in the same division of Amreli district.
Expressing concern over the escalating feline casualties, State Forest Minister Mulu Bera announced measures to address the issue. Directives have been issued to reduce train speeds in wildlife areas and elevate the height of fencing along railway tracks. Minister Bera emphasized the forest department’s commitment to taking swift actions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In a positive development, a government report from 2020 highlighted a nearly 29% increase in the Asiatic lion population in Gujarat, reaching 674 from 523 in a span of five years (2015-2020). Additionally, the distribution area of the lions expanded by 36%, reflecting conservation efforts in the region.
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