On October 15, 2023, a group of 47 tourists was attacked by about 2,000 angry honey bees at Shivneri Fort in Maharashtra. This scary event happened around 11:30 AM near the main entrance of the fort. Because of the attack, 23 people needed to go to Junnar District Hospital for medical help.
The bees that attacked are called Apis cerana indica, known as the Eastern honey bee. These bees usually become defensive when they feel their home is in danger. Shivneri Fort is a famous place because it's the birthplace of the great Maratha king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, in 1630. Many people visit the fort every year to see its beautiful old buildings.
Medical reports say that out of the 23 people who went to the hospital, 15 got many bee stings and needed medicine to help them. Eight people had serious allergic reactions and needed urgent help. The ages of the victims were between 12 and 65 years, with an average age of 37. Three people were given special medicine called epinephrine because they were having severe allergic reactions.
The forest department is now trying to safely move the bee colony. They're using experts who know how to remove bees using smoke. The fort's management has put up signs to warn visitors and has blocked off a 50-meter area around the hive to keep people safe.
In the past five years, bee attacks at historical places in Maharashtra have gone up by 28%. Last year alone, there were 12 cases. Officials believe this is happening because of climate change and people invading bee homes.
To prevent future bee attacks, the fort management will check for new bee colonies every month. They're also setting up a first aid station at the fort for emergencies related to insects.
Tourists affected by the bee attack can claim medical expenses up to ₹50,000 through the fort's visitor protection policy.
