SRINAGAR: Residents of Dargaam village in Pattan continue to live in fear as a leopard, which has been on the loose for the past four months, prowls their surroundings. It has attacked sheep and at least killed one.
Despite numerous sightings and increasing concerns from the locals, wildlife authorities have been criticised for their inaction, leaving the community feeling helpless and unprotected.
Reports indicate that the leopard has been venturing into residential areas and even entering home yards, causing panic among the villagers. In recent weeks, residents have been confining themselves indoors after evening hours, fearing an encounter with the elusive predator. The situation escalated further when the leopard infiltrated the home of local resident Ishfaq Ahmad Parray last week.
In response to the escalating threat, the concerned Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) member urged the wildlife authorities to set up traps to capture the troublesome leopard. However, the authorities responded with a shocking revelation that they were unable to provide the necessary trap-carrying vehicle. The existing vehicle designated for such purposes was reportedly in a state of disrepair, rendering it unusable.
Frustration and anger have gripped the village as the residents feel trapped in their own homes, particularly after 8 PM when the leopard’s presence becomes more pronounced. Hassan Wani, a distressed citizen, compared their situation to being imprisoned due to the apathy and negligence displayed by the wildlife department. Concerns have also been raised about the welfare of the leopard’s cubs, who are believed to be accompanying their mother during these attacks.
The lack of action by the wildlife authorities has sparked outrage within the community, with demands for immediate intervention growing louder. The villagers argue that the authorities’ failure to apprehend the leopard reflects a disregard for their safety and well-being. The residents’ anxieties are further compounded by the fact that the leopard has been roaming freely for an extended period, with no signs of the situation being addressed.
Local officials have now joined the chorus of discontent, calling for urgent measures to be taken to resolve the issue. They emphasise the need for the wildlife department to provide the necessary resources and equipment, including a functioning trap-carrying vehicle, to effectively capture the elusive leopard and safeguard the lives of the villagers.
