Baramulla, Aug 10 (KNO): Fear has gripped several areas of Baramulla township amid repeated leopard sightings, with around three leopards suspected to be roaming across different locations for over a month.
According to the details available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) the leopards have reportedly been sighted in Kanlibagh, Friends Colony, Rangwar and other areas, prompting the Wildlife Department to intensify search and trapping operations.
The development has triggered concern among residents, who have repeatedly urged authorities to ensure their safety and prevent any further untoward incident.
An Incharge Wildlife official said that the department is putting in continuous efforts to capture the leopards and multiple cages have been deployed at vulnerable locations.
“We have set up multiple cages at vulnerable spots and are changing their locations from time to time based on the movement and sightings of the leopards,” the official said.
He said abandoned plots and areas covered with tall grass were hampering the trapping operation, making it difficult for teams to trace the animals.
“People should ensure that plots are not left abandoned. There are several such spots with huge grass, which is one of the reasons why we are facing difficulties in the operations,” the official said.
The department has also urged residents to cooperate with the teams carrying out search and trapping operations and exercise caution during vulnerable hours.
“People should remain indoors during the wee hours and afternoon and allow the department to conduct smooth operations to catch the leopards,” the official said.
Pertinently, the leopard scare has intensified following the attack on an eight-year-old boy, Aahil Fayaz, at Wagila Wagoora in Baramulla on Sunday. The child sustained injuries in the attack and was shifted to GMC Baramulla for specialised treatment.
The Wildlife Department has appealed to residents to remain vigilant, avoid vulnerable areas and report leopard sightings to the concerned authorities while the trapping operation continues—(KNO)