Amid scorching heat, solar water system becomes a lifeline for Cheetah cubs in Kuno

Solar Water System Helps Cheetah Cubs Survive Scorching Summer in Kuno (Image: PTI)

This summer, nature’s fiercest season met human innovation. At Kuno National Park, a quiet water flow is making all the difference for the youngest cheetahs. As temperatures soared, a solar-powered lifeline quietly stepped in.

Solar Power Offers New Hope
A solar-powered water-lift system is now supporting cheetah cubs born this year. With June temperatures nearing 48°C, officials acted to avoid past heartbreak. In May 2023, three cubs from Namibian cheetah Jwala died due to the intense heat. Learning from that loss, forest authorities set up a solar pump to lift water from the Kuno River.

Water now travels through an 8.6-kilometre pipeline. It reaches more than 15 locations via sprinklers and water saucers. These have become vital for nursing mothers and newborn cubs.

Cubs Thrive Despite Harsh Heat
Additional principal chief conservator of forests and Cheetah Project director Uttam Kumar Sharma said the system has shown success. A video posted on X showed the green patches and watering points in action. Sharma noted the water's impact is most felt during peak summer, when the scorching 'loo' winds batter the region.

Wildlife, especially young cubs, struggle when temperatures spike. South African cheetah Veera gave birth to two cubs in February 2025. Another cheetah, Nirva, delivered five cubs in April. Though two of Nirva’s cubs died, officials said the remaining are healthy. Both mothers and cubs have been seen regularly visiting the new water spots.

Cheetahs Adjust to Indian Terrain
Between 2022 and 2023, 20 African cheetahs were relocated to India. Since then, 26 cubs have been born in Kuno. Of these, 17 have survived so far. Forest officials said the cubs are experiencing India’s climate for the first time. Regular use of the water system shows how crucial it has become.

As heat waves grow more intense, this solar setup may play a lasting role. For now, it brings quiet relief to the fastest cats on Earth and their fragile young in a tough new land.