A 45-year-old farmer from Pilibhit district suffered severe injuries in a terrifying big cat attack while he was grazing his goats near the feeder canal towpath of the Sharda river. The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 PM on Monday, sending shockwaves through the local community and highlighting ongoing human-wildlife conflicts in the region.
Victim and Immediate Aftermath
The victim, identified as Premraj, is a resident of Simraya T Ghungchihai village under Puranpur tehsil. According to reports, he was swiftly rescued by fellow farmers who were working in nearby fields. They rushed him to the Puranpur community health centre for initial medical attention.
Medical Condition and Treatment
Dr. Suraj Pandey, a medical officer at the CHC, provided details on Premraj's injuries to the media. He stated that the farmer sustained multiple claw injuries, including a particularly severe cavity-deep wound below the collarbone that exposed his internal tissues. Additionally, injuries on his arm and shoulder were described as muscle-deep, indicating the ferocity of the attack.
Due to the severity of his condition, Premraj was referred to the Autonomous State Medical College hospital in Pilibhit city for advanced treatment and care.
Forest Department Response
Range officer Lallan Swaroop Dixit of the Deoria forest range in the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (PTR) confirmed the attack but noted that the feline responsible has not yet been identified as either a leopard or a tiger. This uncertainty adds to the challenges in managing the situation.
Investigation and Preventive Measures
Sub-divisional forest officer Ramesh Chauhan of the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve and forest & wildlife division explained that pugmarks could not be traced because the attack took place on the canal's metalled road, which does not retain clear tracks. In response, forest officials have announced a series of measures to address the threat.
- Camera traps will be installed in the area to monitor wildlife activity and identify the big cat involved.
- Field forest teams will be deployed to patrol the area, particularly during nighttime hours when such incidents are more likely.
- A cage with live bait will be placed as a precautionary measure to trap the animal if necessary, ensuring public safety.
Financial Assistance and Broader Implications
Chauhan further mentioned that based on Premraj's medical report and the severity of his injuries, his case will be referred for financial assistance. This step is part of efforts to support victims of wildlife attacks, acknowledging the economic and physical toll such incidents take on individuals and families.
The attack underscores the persistent issue of human-wildlife conflict in regions like Pilibhit, where agricultural and forested areas intersect. It serves as a reminder of the need for continued vigilance, community awareness, and effective wildlife management strategies to prevent future tragedies.
