In the vibrant IT corridor of southeast Bengaluru, a sense of unease has settled in as a leopard has been sighted on the prowl. This unanticipated visitor has stirred anxiety among residents living near MS Dhoni Global School, Kudlu Main Road, Singasandra, and HSR Layout, with multiple appearances over the past 48 hours, mostly under the cover of darkness.
Footage captured by surveillance cameras within apartment complexes has rapidly circulated on social media, exposing the leopard’s bold ventures into basements and elevator lobbies. Understandably, these recurring nocturnal visits have raised concerns, prompting swift action by Bengaluru Urban’s forest officials.
A Swift Response from Authorities
Bengaluru’s forest officials have wasted no time addressing the situation. They’ve initiated an extensive operation to locate and safely rescue the leopard. This mission involves more than 25 personnel, a team of experienced veterinarians, and sharpshooters poised to tranquillize the elusive feline.
Additionally, authorities have deployed two drones to assist in their search for the elusive leopard. To ensure residents’ safety, both forest department and police personnel have taken to the streets, issuing vital guidance: avoid venturing out alone, especially during the late-night and early morning hours.
Staying Safe Amidst the Leopard’s Presence
Recognizing the leopard’s presence at Salarpuria Cadenza apartment in Kudlu Gate, N Ravindra Kumar, the deputy conservator of forests in Bengaluru Urban, has shared essential advice for residents. “We’ve advised people not to venture out alone and to use cars or public transport when necessary at night. Residents have been cautioned against approaching any vegetation during the evening and nighttime hours.” Pet owners have also been encouraged to avoid walking their pets in the area.
A Multi-Pronged Approach to Locate the Leopard
The efforts to find and ensure the safety of the leopard have been extensive. Two cages have been set up at different locations, strategically placed based on the leopard’s movements. A rescue team of veterinarians from Bannerghatta Biological Park is on-site, using thermal imaging cameras for night surveillance, while drone cameras are scouring areas with dense vegetation in search of the elusive big cat.
A range forest officer estimates the leopard’s age to be between two to three years. It likely entered the area from either Bannerghatta National Park or through the dense vegetation covering 15-20 acres near HSR Layout.
CK Baba, DCP southeast, assures residents that there’s no need to panic. The forest department is committed to tracking and rescuing the leopard, and additional safety measures are in place. Police personnel will be stationed around apartment complexes during the night as a precautionary measure to provide peace of mind to residents.
A Short Message to the Community
In the face of this unexpected wildlife encounter, it is essential for the community to stay vigilant, follow safety guidelines, and support the ongoing efforts to ensure the safe return of this majestic creature to its natural habitat. Together, we can coexist with nature and protect our shared environment.