Amreli district, known as a key habitat of Asiatic lions, again saw swift action from forest officials. Two cubs slipped into an empty canal. Prompt efforts ensured both were rescued safely without harm.

The incident took place on the outskirts of Mota Gokharwala village in Liliya taluka, in Amreli district, in northern India's Gujarat, on January 10.

Visuals show that wildlife rescue teams in Gujarat, India used ropes and nets to remove two lion cubs from a deep canal culvert. The cubs were carefully lifted out, wrapped for protection, and placed inside metal cages to ensure their safety.

Speaking to Newslions, Bharatbhai Galani, Range Forest Officer (RFO), Liliya Forest Range, Amreli, Gujarat, stated that on January 10, 2026, a lion cub was discovered trapped inside a canal pipe at Motagokharwala village, which falls under the Liliya Wildlife Range of the Shetrunji Wildlife Division.

The situation came to light after a local farmer alerted the Forest Department. Recognizing the seriousness of the incident, forest officials rushed to the location without delay. The trapped cub was safely rescued and placed in a protective cage to ensure its safety. Following the rescue, forest personnel closely monitored the area in an effort to trace the movement of the mother lioness.

A detailed scan of the surrounding region was carried out to ensure there were no further risks. Their efforts proved successful the following day.

On January 11, 2026, at around 8:45 pm, the lioness reached the rescue site, allowing forest officials to facilitate a smooth and safe reunion between the cub and its mother. The entire rescue and reunion operation was efficiently executed by the dedicated staff of the Liliya Range Forest Department.