Sopore, Mar 09: Panic gripped several areas of Sopore in north Kashmir after a leopard was spotted roaming in different localities, including Bohripora, Seelo, Shangergund, Brath Kalan and Nowpora since last four days.
According to authorities, the wild animal was first sighted in the Bohripora area where it attacked and injured three persons, including an employee of the wildlife department. The injured were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Following the incident, fear spread among residents of nearby localities as the leopard continued to move across different areas. Locals reported sightings of the animal in Seelo, Shangergund, Brath Kalan and Nowpora, prompting concern among the public.
Officials from the wildlife department and local administration rushed to the affected areas and launched efforts to trace and capture the leopard. Teams have been deployed to monitor the movement of the animal and prevent further attacks.
Authorities have advised residents of these localities to remain vigilant, particularly during night hours, and avoid venturing out unnecessarily. People have also been urged to keep children indoors and report any sighting of the leopard to the concerned department immediately.
Residents of the affected areas have appealed to the authorities and the Wildlife Protection Department to take immediate measures to prevent further incidents. They urged officials to install trap cages and deploy monitoring teams in the locality to capture the leopard at the earliest. The residents stressed that swift action is necessary to ensure the safety and security of the local population, particularly during the night hours when fear and panic continue to grip the area.
Meanwhile, officials said that efforts are underway to track the animal and ensure the safety of the residents in the affected areas.
