Amreli: The rising number of leopard sightings and attacks in rural parts of Gujarat’s Amreli district has left the people in fear, particularly those living near farms. In response to the increasing incidents of predatory animals entering residential areas and targeting children, a farmer from Japodar village has implemented an unconventional solution to ensure their safety.
In recent months, leopards have been spotted in human settlements in search of prey, leading to multiple attacks. The situation has become so dire that farmers and labourers in Amreli have had to resort to unconventional methods to protect their children.
Bharatbhai Khimabhai Baraiya, an agricultural worker in the SIM area of Japodar village, has constructed a secure cage to shield his six children from potential leopard attacks. This decision came after the tragic loss of his wife and mother, leaving him solely responsible for his children’s safety.
“I was constantly worried about my children, especially while working in the fields or being away. With leopards frequently spotted nearby, I needed a way to keep them safe,” Bharatbhai explained.
The cage, made of sturdy iron mesh, provides a protective barrier against wild animals. Bharatbhai ensures that his children sleep inside the cage at night and remain within its safety when unattended during the day. This innovative solution has offered some peace of mind to the farmer, though it highlights the gravity of the human-wildlife conflict in the region.
Amreli is known for its large population of lions and leopards, which often stray into nearby villages. These incursions have caused significant distress, especially among those living in agricultural areas. Incidents of leopards attacking children while they sleep have become alarmingly common, spreading fear among residents.
Bharatbhai’s experiment has drawn attention as a grassroots response to a pressing issue. While the authorities are aware of the challenges posed by the increasing wildlife presence, more comprehensive measures to mitigate the human-wildlife conflict in Amreli remain urgently needed.
The innovative cage solution offers a temporary sense of security, but the community continues to hope for broader initiatives to address the root cause of these encounters and ensure safety for all.
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