The drama unfolded in the early hours of the morning when the silence of the industrial estate was broken by the frantic barking of dogs. Alerted by the commotion, the watchman stepped out of his cabin to investigate the disturbance. As he moved toward the entrance to secure the perimeter, the dogs fled past him, closely trailed by a full-grown lion that emerged from the darkness. Caught in a sudden, high-stakes standoff, the watchman exhibited remarkable presence of mind. He managed to retreat and swing the heavy iron gates shut just as the apex predator reached the threshold, effectively thwarting what could have been a fatal confrontation.
Footage from the CCTV cameras, which has since circulated widely, highlights the sheer speed of the chase and the hair's breadth by which the guard escaped. Local authorities and forest department officials often monitor such sightings, as the proximity of Junagadh to the Girnar hills—a major habitat for the endangered Asiatic lion—frequently leads to "fringe" encounters. While the lion retreated back toward the forest cover shortly after the gate was closed, the incident has sparked renewed discussions regarding safety protocols for workers in the industrial belts bordering protected areas.
This encounter underscores the growing challenges of human-wildlife coexistence in Gujarat’s emerald corridors. As the lion population expands and their traditional territories overlap with urban and industrial development, such incidents are becoming increasingly common. While the watchman’s quick reflexes prevented a tragedy this time, the event emphasizes the necessity for enhanced vigil and perhaps more robust physical barriers to ensure the safety of those living and working on the edge of the wild.
About The Author
Comment List