Baramulla, Jan 01: Residents of several areas in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district are grappling with heightened fear due to the increased presence of leopards this winter.
According to locals, leopards have been spotted in various villages including Janbazpora, Sharakwara and Kandi belts, causing concern among them.
“The frequent sightings of leopards have created an atmosphere of unease. Instances of CCTV footage capturing leopards entering private properties and attacking livestock have become more common,” said a local.
In a suspected leopard attack on Monday, approximately half a dozen sheep were killed in Sharakwara Wagoora village in Baramulla.
An official said the animal, believed to be a leopard, entered a shed owned by Nazir Ahmad Ganie, son of Abdul Kabir Ganie, killing several sheep. “A police team has reached the site to monitor the impending situation,” he said.
Over the past week, several leopards have been observed roaming around the Janbazpora, Binner, and Chakloo villages of Baramulla after sunset, further alarming the residents. Despite the wildlife department’s deployment of multiple teams to trace the wild animals, their efforts have yet to yield results.
Wildlife experts said the scarcity of food in forest areas during winter, combined with increased garbage in localities, attracts wild animals, which leads to incidents of them attacking dogs and cattle.
Residents of Janbazpora Mir Mohalla expressed distress as a leopard was spotted freely roaming in the area, as captured in CCTV footage. Urging prompt action from the Wildlife department, locals are particularly concerned about the safety of the young and old in the village.
The local authorities said they are closely monitoring the situation. They have advised the residents to remain vigilant and report any leopard sightings or unusual behaviour to the relevant authorities for prompt action.
