Rajasthan, India – A farmer’s discovery of a leopard trapped deep in a well set off a daring rescue that highlighted one ranger’s dedication to wildlife. Months later, that same ranger was killed while confronting illegal mining operations. The events underscore the risks faced by those protecting forests and animals in the region.
The Rescue Unfolds
On April 9, farmer Rupalal noticed unusual noises coming from a well on his land in Dhawadi village. Peering down, he spotted a leopard roughly 21 meters below the surface. A team from the Rajasthan Forest Department responded quickly and lowered a cage in an attempt to lure the animal inside. The leopard refused to enter the cage. Ranger Pratap Singh Chundawat then volunteered to descend into the narrow shaft by rope. He used a dart gun to tranquilize the animal, allowing the team to lift it safely to the surface. A subsequent veterinary check confirmed the leopard was a healthy male about one and a half years old.
Chundawat’s Record of Service
Chundawat had built a reputation for handling difficult wildlife rescues and managing tree nurseries across the district. His efforts earned him recognition at both district and division levels. Colleagues described him as reliable and effective in the field. On the eve of World Environment Day, the Rajasthan Environment and Energy Conservation Centre presented him with an award in Jaipur for his contributions to forest and wildlife conservation. Deputy conservator of forests Suresh Agrawal publicly called Chundawat the department’s best officer in the Pratapgarh district.
A Separate Tragedy Strikes
Chundawat’s death occurred months after the well rescue. On the night of September 21, forest staff received reports of an earthmover and truck operating in an area linked to soil mining. The following day, September 22, Chundawat was run down by individuals allegedly tied to a local mining mafia. Authorities treated the incident as occurring in the line of duty. Chundawat was 40 years old at the time of his death. The case drew attention to ongoing conflicts between conservation staff and illegal resource extraction in parts of Rajasthan.
Broader Risks for Field Officers
Incidents like these reveal the personal dangers that accompany routine enforcement work in remote areas. Rangers often operate with limited backup when responding to reports of illegal activity at night. The combination of wildlife emergencies and anti-poaching or anti-mining patrols creates a demanding operational environment. Chundawat’s story illustrates both the immediate rewards of successful rescues and the persistent threats that can follow. His colleagues continue similar work amid these challenges.
