A terrifying encounter between a man and a lion occurred late at night outside the Aadhar Cement factory in Patapur village, Junagadh, and was captured on CCTV. This incident has increased concerns among local residents regarding the presence of lions. The forest department has increased patrolling in the area to prevent any untoward incidents.
Gujarat: A sudden face-off occurred between an employee and a lion at the gate of the Aadhar Cement factory in Patapur village, Dungarpur area of Junagadh. In this incident, captured on the factory's CCTV, both were startled upon seeing each other and immediately began to flee. This event highlights the increasing conflict between the jungle and humans. Considering the seriousness of the matter, the forest department has intensified patrolling in the area to ensure the safety of the local people.
Human-Lion Collision at Factory Gate
Late at night, as an employee was exiting the Aadhar Cement factory in Patapur village, Junagadh, a lion suddenly appeared in front of him at the gate. Both were frightened upon seeing each other and started to run away. The entire incident was recorded on the factory's CCTV camera. The video shows the employee stopping as soon as he reaches the gate, and the lion standing opposite also turns and runs towards the forest. This incident is a serious warning about the increasing conflict between wildlife and humans.
Statement from Cement Factory Owner
Sagar Kotecha, the owner of Aadhar Cement Factory, stated that the incident occurred around 10 PM. He said that since the area is very close to the jungle, the movement of lions is a common occurrence. According to him, lions have been seen moving around in the factory's CCTV footage several times, although no one has been harmed so far. Sagar also said that the sudden appearance of the king of the jungle is natural, and it is natural to be afraid in such circumstances.
Local Fear and Increased Vigilance by the Forest Department
Upon receiving information about the incident, the employees working at the factory and the people in the surrounding villages have become alert. The forest department has been informed and instructed to increase patrolling in the area to monitor the lion's activities and prevent any untoward incidents. Previously, in Talli village in Bhavnagar, a young man got too close to a lion while hunting, which startled the lion. Although the young man was not injured, forest officials arrested him under the Wildlife Protection Act.
The Challenge of Human-Wildlife Conflict
The continuous movement of lions in Junagadh and surrounding areas has increased concerns among local people. The forest department and administration need to exercise strict caution regarding the increasing conflict between wildlife and human settlements. Experts are also suggesting that better management is necessary for the safety of wildlife as well as human safety in areas near the forest, so that peace can be maintained between the two and any untoward incidents can be avoided.
