TANAHUN: At least 17 children have been killed and 21 people injured in wildlife attacks in Tanahun district over the past nine years, according to the Division Forest Office.

Data covering fiscal years 2017/18 to 2025/26 shows 38 incidents of human-wildlife conflict across the district, with Bandipur Rural Municipality emerging as the most affected area.

Forest officials said Bandipur alone recorded 11 incidents, resulting in seven child deaths and four injuries. Bhanu Municipality reported 14 incidents, including five deaths and nine injuries, while most attacks were attributed to leopards, with a few cases involving bears and monkeys.

Similarly, Vyas Municipality recorded six incidents with two deaths and four injuries. Shuklagandaki Municipality reported two deaths and one injury in three incidents, while Anbu Khaireni Rural Municipality recorded one death and two injuries. Myagde Rural Municipality reported a single injury case.

Officials said leopards were responsible for most of the fatalities, while bears and monkeys caused comparatively fewer injuries.

The Division Forest Office stated that compensation and relief are provided under the Wildlife Damage Relief Guideline 2023. Victims or their families must apply within 35 days to be eligible for assistance.

According to officials, minor injuries are eligible for up to Rs 20,000 in treatment support, while serious injuries can receive up to Rs 200,000, with additional costs covered by the government if required.

A lump-sum of Rs 500,000 is provided in cases of permanent disability, while families of deceased victims receive Rs 1 million in relief. If a victim dies within 35 days of treatment due to complications, full medical costs along with the relief amount are provided to the legal heir.