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Leopard Attacks Surge Near Dudhwa: Children Among Victims
16 Oct
Summary
- Two children killed by leopards in three days, raising fears.
- Nine people, including six minors, died in attacks since April 2026.
- Staff shortages and sugarcane fields hinder effective response.
Renewed terror grips villages bordering Dudhwa Tiger Reserve as two children have been killed by leopards in a mere three days. These recent fatalities bring the total to nine deaths, including six minors, since April 2026. The attacks underscore the immense difficulty in managing human-wildlife conflict within a landscape characterized by dense sugarcane fields and limited forest staff.
Forest officials are grappling with multiple wildlife emergencies, including tiger, leopard, and elephant movements, exacerbated by an understaffed force. As of June 2026, Dudhwa buffer zone has only 27 forest guards against a sanctioned strength of 52. Despite these constraints, 22 leopards were captured this financial year. Sugarcane cultivation, providing ample cover for big cats near settlements, complicates efforts to locate and anticipate leopard movements.
While awareness campaigns are conducted, their impact often wanes. Families are urged to prevent children from venturing out alone, especially after dark. Long-term strategies may involve altering crop patterns to discourage leopards from venturing near human habitations. Fencing in sensitive areas is ongoing, and sterilization is being considered as a future population management measure, though its effects would take years to materialize.
