Officials on alert, residents on edge over leopard on the prowl

Panchkula: With the leopard sighted five days ago still to return to the forest, residents of Sector 6, Panchkula, are in a state of unease and wildlife authorities are on high alert. Despite constant efforts by the department, the big cat is believed to still be moving within inhabited areas.The leopard was first spotted five days ago in a posh area, with the latest sighting reported from Command area, indicating that it is traversing multiple residential and sensitive zones. Repeated sightings prompted the wildlife department to step up patrolling and surveillance, with officials remaining on alert round the clock. Rescue teams are also ready. "It was last seen in Officers Colony in Cantt area. Hopefully, in a day or two, it will go back to the Sukhna forest area," said an official. According to wildlife department sources, regular night patrols are being conducted as the leopard is yet to move back into the wild. Residents of affected areas are being advised not to venture out at night. "Even if people need to step out, they should move in groups of two to three," a wildlife official said.Sources added that if the leopard moves out of the Cantonment area, it is likely to return towards Sukhna Wildlife sanctuary. Officials also said this is not the first time a leopard was spotted in Sector 6, as similar sightings were reported there earlier as well. The recurring presence of the big cat intensified fear among residents.Meanwhile, another leopard was reportedly spotted in Kandai village, Morni, on Thursday. Although the sighting occurred in a jungle area, forest and wildlife teams intensified patrolling in the region. Villagers have been advised to remain cautious. The wildlife department urged people in affected areas to stay calm, follow safety advisories, and immediately inform authorities in case of any further sightings.MSID:: 126289987 413 |