Leopard Sighting Triggers Widespread Panic in Haryana's Shahpuria Village
Panic has gripped Shahpuria village in the Chopta area of Sirsa district, Haryana, after villagers reported spotting a leopard in nearby agricultural fields. The alarming sighting has heightened fear among residents, particularly as similar reports have emerged from villages along the Rajasthan border over the past several days, creating a tense atmosphere in the region.
Villagers Urged to Stay Alert After Wednesday Evening Sighting
According to local accounts, the leopard was seen on Wednesday evening, prompting an immediate announcement over the loudspeaker of the village temple. The announcement urged residents to remain alert and avoid venturing out unnecessarily to ensure their safety. Following this warning, several villagers gathered and conducted a search in the surrounding fields, intensifying efforts to locate the elusive animal.
During the search, villagers claimed to have found leopard paw prints in agricultural fields along the Shahpuria–Gigorani road. One resident reported discovering clear paw marks, which further reinforced concerns about the animal's persistent presence in the area, adding to the growing unease among the community.
Reports of Leopard Movement Span Nearly a Month Across Border Areas
Notably, reports of leopard movement have surfaced for nearly one month in the border areas of Rajasthan and Haryana. The first such report originated from the Taranagar area of Rajasthan, where initial sightings raised alarms. Subsequently, paw prints were also found in Sahuwala village of Bhadra tehsil, indicating the animal's possible migration or territorial expansion.
In Haryana, similar reports have been received from Kagadana and Nathusari Chopta areas, contributing to an atmosphere of fear and apprehension among villagers. The consistent pattern of sightings and evidence has led to widespread calls for immediate action to address the potential threat posed by the leopard.
Residents Demand Forest Department Intervention and Patrols
In response to the escalating situation, residents have demanded that the forest department initiate patrolling in the region and take immediate steps to track and capture the leopard. The primary goal is to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure the safety of both villagers and the wildlife. The community's urgent plea underscores the need for coordinated efforts between local authorities and wildlife experts to manage the situation effectively.
The ongoing reports and evidence highlight the challenges of human-wildlife conflict in border regions, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to safeguard communities while preserving natural habitats. As fear continues to spread, the focus remains on swift and decisive action to resolve the crisis and restore peace in the affected villages.
