A 12-year-old boy was killed by a lion while climbing the steps of Girnar Hill in Gujarat’s Junagadh district on Saturday morning, officials confirmed. The attack, the ninth on humans in the state in 46 days, occurred near the popular pilgrimage site.
The victim, Mayur Singh from Modaj village in Kheda district, was with his family when the lion emerged from the forest around 5:45 am. The animal dragged him into the woods before rescuers could intervene. Search teams later recovered his shoes, clothes, and partial remains.
Search and safety measures after Girnar lion attack
Forest department personnel, police, and rescue teams launched an immediate search. Three lions suspected in the attack were tranquilized and moved to Sakkarbaug Zoo for examination. Officials found human remains in one lion’s vomit and additional body parts scattered in the forest.
Authorities temporarily closed the Girnar steps and announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the victim’s family under state policy. The forest department plans to enhance safety, including additional personnel and potential fencing along the 2,000-step route.
Concerns over pilgrim safety at Girnar
Locals and the victim’s family raised concerns about inadequate lighting and security, noting lions had been spotted near the staircase for days. The route will reopen only after a detailed inspection and implementation of new safety measures.
