A potentially dangerous situation was averted in Dibrugarh, Assam, when the state's forest department successfully captured a leopard that had been prowling near a major industrial complex. The big cat had been sighted for several days around the Brahmaputra Cracker Polymer Ltd (BCPL) facility in the Lepetkata area, sparking significant safety fears among local residents and industrial workers.
Strategic Operation Leads to Dawn Capture
Acting on multiple reports from the concerned community, the forest department launched a meticulous capture mission. The strategy involved placing a specially reinforced iron cage in the zone where the leopard was most frequently observed. The cage was baited with live prey to lure the animal.
The plan culminated in success in the early hours of Saturday morning. At dawn, the leopard entered the baited trap and was secured by the waiting officials. Authorities confirmed that the entire operation was conducted without causing any injury to the leopard or posing a risk to the public.
Health Check and Planned Release into Wild Habitat
Dibrugarh's Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Nandha Kumar, provided details on the next steps for the captured feline. "The captured leopard will first undergo a comprehensive veterinary examination to assess its health," Kumar stated. He further explained, "Subsequently, following all protocols, the animal will be translocated and released into the deep forests of the Dehing Patkai National Park, a suitable habitat far removed from human habitation."
Forest officials shed light on why leopards might venture into such areas. The vast, dense tea garden estates that envelop the industrial zone act as a natural corridor and habitat for these predators. Animals sometimes stray into human-dominated landscapes during territorial explorations or while in search of food.
Community Relief and Continued Vigilance
The safe capture has brought immense relief to the local population in Lepetkata, ending a period of heightened anxiety and restricted movement. People can now go about their daily routines with reduced fear.
While celebrating this successful operation, the forest department has also urged the public to maintain vigilance. They have assured citizens that they will continue to respond promptly to any future alerts concerning wildlife movements in human areas. This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of human-wildlife interface in regions like Assam, where natural habitats border industrial and residential zones.
