Home / Environment / Leopard Attacks Grip Kheri Villages: School Safety Fears Grow
Leopard Attacks Grip Kheri Villages: School Safety Fears Grow
16 Oct
Summary
- Six children died from leopard attacks this financial year.
- Parents worry about children attending schools near forests.
- Authorities organize awareness drives and safety group travel.
The safety of schoolchildren in Kheri has become a critical issue, with six children succumbing to leopard attacks in the current financial year alone. Recent fatalities occurred on October 12 and 14, heightening fears in villages situated near reserved forests. These areas, particularly in Palia, Nighasan, Dhaurahra, and Mohammadi tehsils, frequently report leopard activity, causing significant worry for parents whose children attend government primary schools.
In response, education officials are implementing safety measures and awareness campaigns. One school temporarily relocated students and staff due to a tigress with cubs nearby. District education authorities have advised parents to organize children into supervised groups for commuting to and from school. The education department is conducting cluster-level meetings and parent-teacher gatherings to reinforce safety guidelines.
Collaboration between forest and education departments is underway to sensitize residents and students. Awareness programs, including puppet shows, are being organized in affected villages and schools to educate the community about wildlife and necessary precautions. Forest officials stress that collective awareness and vigilance are paramount to protecting children and mitigating human-wildlife conflict.
