The district administration and forest department of Bijnor have issued an alert following a surge in leopard sightings after the wheat and sugarcane harvest. Officials have identified over 120 villages as sensitive zones, estimating that more than 500 leopards are currently hiding in the sugarcane fields.
Rising Leopard Attacks
Since January 2023, leopard attacks have claimed 36 lives in the region. Incidents involving farmers, women, and livestock have increased as the animals move closer to villages in search of prey and water. The situation has escalated particularly after the harvest, which has reduced cover for leopards, forcing them into human-dominated areas.
Government Measures
District Magistrate Jasjit Kaur has directed officials to set up cages in affected villages and launch awareness campaigns to prevent human-animal conflict. The forest department has already installed over 100 cages and is using drones to monitor and capture the leopards. These efforts aim to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of residents.
Advisory for Residents
Residents have been advised to take precautionary measures, including working in groups, avoiding isolated areas during dawn and dusk, and promptly reporting any leopard sightings to the authorities. The forest department has also set up a helpline number for emergencies.
The administration continues to monitor the situation closely, with additional resources being deployed to sensitive villages. The public is urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with officials to reduce the chances of further incidents.
