A leopard that attacked a villager in the Hora Wala Range of Kalsi Division, Dehradun district, died after falling from a cliff soon after the attack. The incident has raised concerns about the increasing presence of wild animals near human settlements.
According to forest officials, the leopard pounced on the villager but lost its balance during the scuffle and fell from a rock, resulting in its death. The villager is reportedly safe, though shaken by the incident.
Meanwhile, in Garud tehsil, the forest department has ramped up efforts to spread awareness among locals about leopard activity. Loudspeakers have been installed in various areas to alert people and advise them to avoid going out alone at night or early morning.
Baijnath Forest Officer Mahendra Singh Gusai and Bajyula Ranger Kewalanand Pandey are leading an awareness campaign. Forest personnel are also informing residents about safety precautions and encouraging them to report any leopard sightings immediately.
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Dhruv Martolia has instructed the installation of trap cameras to monitor leopard movement in the Garud region. Patrolling has also been increased in areas where leopards are frequently spotted.
Recently, leopards have been seen near Sheetla Mata Mandir in Titbazar and on the Matena-Silli road, triggering panic among residents. Locals have requested the forest department to install cages in sensitive areas to prevent further incidents.
The DFO stated that if leopard activity continues, a formal request will be made to the Chief Forest Conservator for permission to install cages. He has also appealed to residents to remain alert and avoid venturing out in the dark or alone.
