Imran Shah
Kishtwar, TDD,In response to the growing concerns over leopard attacks in the Gulabgarh-Paddar area, a wildlife protection team visited the area to assure locals of all possible assistance in tackling the predator menace.
The visit led by Asgar Ahmed, incharge wild life control room, comes in the wake of detailed report carried by “The Diplomat” suggesting leopards preying on livestock and cattle, causing widespread fear among the local population. The issue had gained attention after “The Diplomat” published a story highlighting the “reign of terror” unleashed by leopards in the area.
During their visit, wildlife officials interacted with the locals to understand the extent of the problem and shared preventive measures. Amar Singh, a resident of Gulabgarh, expressed gratitude to the team, saying their visit had brought some relief to the distressed villagers. “We are hopeful that with their intervention, we will be able to better protect our livestock and feel safer in our homes,” he added and thanked The Diplomat for highlighting the issue.
The officials stresses on the importance of timely reporting, urging locals to immediately inform the department upon spotting leopards or any other wild animals in the vicinity. Special instructions were given to residents near the Gujjar Dhokas, areas particularly vulnerable to wildlife incursions. The team also assured that necessary steps, including the deployment of rescue operations and setting up of traps for the leopards, would be taken promptly to mitigate the situation.
The visit marks a significant step towards restoring confidence among the locals. TDD