SRINAGAR: Panic spread in Guna Gocha Basti near the Tral bus stand on Monday after a leopard was spotted roaming through the area at around 10:30 pm. Residents have appealed to the Wildlife Department and local administration for immediate action.
Locals said the sighting was not an isolated incident. “A leopard was seen near a food store in Madina Colony just a few days ago. It’s now clear the animal is moving frequently through our neighbourhoods,” said one resident, adding that fear is growing, particularly among children and the elderly.
Recent leopard-related incidents in nearby areas, including livestock killings in Panzo, Handora, and Wagad villages, have further heightened concerns. Residents fear the predator may pose a threat to human life.
“Last year, there were leopard attacks in Gulshanpura and Rathsona. We don’t want a repeat of that,” said a group of villagers.
Residents have urged the Wildlife Department in Tral to deploy a rescue team and install cages or other non-lethal measures to capture the animal. They have also called for public advisories to be issued to prevent any mishap.
“This is a densely populated area. A leopard moving through our streets at night poses a serious risk. Authorities must act before it’s too late,” said a local resident. (KNT)
