Leopards cause panic in Medak

Medak: The bogey of leopards is back and is haunting the people of Medak. Forest department officials said that two leopards are active and killed cattle in the last few months.

In December there was an incident when a calf was kiklled and on May 2, people in Pocharam wildlife sanctuary have complained of leopards on the prowl. Thanks to technology, camera trap images and analysis has confirmed that the leopards are different and are on rampage.

Till date the leopards have killed 25 animals. The forest department has placed baits and cages but the leopards have somehow escaped getting caught. In the meanwhile, villagers are living in perpetual fear. Mallesh, a villager said, “We are moving about in groups as it is dangerous to walk alone. Last year as well because we were in a group, we were able to drive away a leopard.”

Last year a leopard was beaten by the locals and it has returned say locals. The forest department is the g all means to capture the leopards. K Devilal, the forest range officer for Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary said, “The situation would be brought under control as the department is trying various methods to trap the leopards.