Srinagar, July 18: In response to reports from locals claiming to have spotted a leopard in the upper areas of the Har Parbat axis in Badamwari, the wildlife authorities and the Jammu & Kashmir Forest department have initiated a joint search operation to locate and rescue the elusive animal.
According to an official statement provided by Rising Kashmir, a cage has been strategically placed in an effort to safely capture the leopard. As a precautionary measure, authorities have also appealed to residents to avoid venturing into the nearby forest until the situation is resolved.
The Srinagar police, in coordination with wildlife officials, are actively involved in the rescue operation. A tweet issued by the Srinagar police confirmed the sighting and urged the local populace to remain indoors and refrain from unnecessary travel until the situation is brought under control.
The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Wildlife Warden Central, Altaf Ahmad, stated that they received information yesterday regarding the leopard’s presence in the Badamwari area. Since then, a comprehensive search and rescue operation has been underway, with teams from the wildlife department and the police intensifying efforts to locate the elusive feline.
Despite the collective efforts, as of today, there have been no confirmed sightings of the leopard. The search operation continues in Badamwari and its surrounding areas, where the strategically placed cage aims to facilitate the safe capture and relocation of the animal.
Authorities remain vigilant and committed to ensuring the safety of both residents and wildlife during this delicate situation. The cooperation of the public in adhering to the safety guidelines is crucial to the successful resolution of the operation. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
