Palitana: A man was seriously injured in a lion attack on July 6 in the Garajia village area under the Palitana Wildlife Range of the Shetrunji Wildlife Division in Bhavnagar district. As soon as the incident was reported, a Forest Department team rushed to the spot and launched an operation to locate the lion.

According to the Forest Department, the injured man displayed remarkable patience, presence of mind and mental composure during the attack. Despite suddenly coming face-to-face with the lion, he remained calm instead of panicking. The department said his bravery and quick thinking helped avert a bigger tragedy.

Soon after receiving the information, officials of the Shetrunji Wildlife Division, along with rescue teams, veterinary staff and field personnel, reached the site. After surveying the area, they launched an operation to locate and safely rescue the lion.

The Forest Department said the lion moved away from the spot peacefully after the attack. Multiple rescue teams have since been deployed, and the search operation is continuing.

The department has appealed to local residents to immediately inform forest officials if they spot the lion and not to attempt to confront or chase it on their own. It said public cooperation, restraint and awareness play a vital role in preventing incidents of human-wildlife conflict.

The Forest Department further noted that the Maldhari community living in the Greater Gir region has, for generations, set a unique example of coexistence with wildlife, including lions. Being familiar with the behaviour of wild animals, the Maldharis do not harm them even after attacks on their livestock and continue to support wildlife conservation. DeshGujarat