LEOPARDS ROAMING IN HYDERABAD

The peaceful outskirts of Hyderabad have recently been gripped by fear after the reported sighting of a leopard in the Gandipet region. What started as a rumor quickly turned into reality when police personnel confirmed spotting a leopard in the dense Greyhounds forest area last week. The sighting has caused significant panic among the local residents, especially those living near forested and hilly terrain. Many have become increasingly cautious, especially after the news went viral on social media.

The concern intensified when a villa owner near E.I.P.L River Edge Villas captured a photo of the leopard as it rested on a nearby hill. The image, taken with a mobile phone, was widely shared online, adding to the growing public anxiety. This photo acted as crucial evidence, prompting the forest department to launch a full-scale search operation. Their immediate response shows the seriousness of the situation, with authorities prioritizing both wildlife safety and public protection.

Despite an entire day of searching, forest officials were initially unable to locate the elusive big cat. To improve their chances of tracking it, they installed eight motion-sensitive trap cameras and strategically placed four goat carcasses to lure the leopard. These baits were placed in areas believed to be part of the leopard’s usual route. The move showcased the department’s readiness and technical approach to wildlife tracking.

Their efforts paid off when one of the cameras captured footage of the leopard crossing a road at 7:40 am the following day. This confirmed that the animal was still roaming freely in the area. While there were no reports of attacks or injuries, the very presence of a wild predator so close to human settlements raised serious concerns about public safety. The footage also helped wildlife experts assess the leopard’s condition and behavior.

In light of these sightings, the forest department issued a public advisory urging people not to travel alone, especially during nighttime, in Gandipet and Manchirevula. These areas, known for their proximity to forest patches, are now under close surveillance. Local residents have been advised to avoid early morning walks and late-night outings until further notice is issued. Warning signboards are also being erected at key locations to increase awareness.

Meanwhile, schools and local community groups have begun spreading information about safety measures. Children are being asked not to venture out alone, and pet owners have been told to keep animals indoors. Some communities have even arranged local patrols to ensure everyone’s safety. People are urged to report any unusual animal sightings immediately to the forest department or police.

While Hyderabad continues to expand into green zones, human-animal conflicts like this are likely to increase. Experts believe that habitat disruption and shrinking forest covers are pushing wild animals like leopards closer to human settlements. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for balanced urban development and wildlife conservation. For now, the leopard remains at large, and both curiosity and fear continue to loom over Gandipet.