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Cheetah Cub Fatally Hit on Indian Highway
8 Dec
Summary
- Two cheetah cubs were struck by a vehicle on National Highway 46 near Gwalior.
- One 20-month-old cub died instantly, while its sibling survived the collision.
- Forest officials are investigating the incident and have impounded the vehicle.
A 20-month-old cheetah cub tragically died after being struck by a vehicle on National Highway 46 near Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. The incident occurred when two cubs, who had been outside the protected Kuno forest for about a month, attempted to cross the highway. Despite surveillance efforts by forest staff, the collision happened suddenly.
Authorities have launched an investigation, identifying the vehicle through CCTV footage and intercepting it in neighboring Rajasthan. Forensic samples are being collected, and the driver will be questioned. This loss follows another cub's death just days prior, raising concerns about the project's safety measures and the risks faced by translocated wildlife.
The accident underscores the significant danger posed by highways bisecting wildlife habitats, contributing to thousands of animal fatalities annually in India. Conservationists emphasize the urgent need for structural mitigation, such as speed controls and safe crossing structures, to protect vulnerable species like cheetahs.
