Belthangady Schools Implement Leopard Safety Protocols After Increased Sightings
In response to multiple reports of leopard movement across the taluk in recent weeks, the Belthangady Block Education Office (BEO) has issued an official safety circular to all educational institutions in the region. This directive mandates the adoption of stringent precautionary measures to safeguard schoolchildren from potential wildlife encounters.
Growing Concerns Prompt Official Action
BEO Tarakesari confirmed that the guidelines were formulated after teachers and parents expressed serious concerns regarding frequent leopard sightings in various parts of Belthangady. The circular emphasizes heightened vigilance and places collective responsibility for student safety squarely on the shoulders of all teaching staff.
Comprehensive Safety Measures Outlined
The detailed circular includes several key instructions for schools to implement immediately:
- Schools must ensure that children commute with their parents whenever possible and formally communicate all safety protocols to parents.
- Parents are advised to send children from home at a time that allows arrival at school only by 9:30 AM.
- Students should be released at 4:20 PM strictly under parental responsibility, with head teachers and designated staff remaining on campus until all children have departed safely.
- Continuous supervision must be maintained to prevent students from leaving campus at unauthorized times.
- Children may only play or use washrooms under direct teacher supervision, with special emphasis on moving in groups at all times.
- Evening special classes are prohibited, and online classes should only be scheduled after children have returned home.
Special Provisions for High-Risk Areas
For regions experiencing particularly frequent leopard movement, the circular includes additional provisions:
- Children may be exempted from attending school, with parents instructed to ensure their safety at home.
- Schools located near forest areas must conduct classes with doors closed and ensure children are accompanied by teachers whenever they leave classrooms.
Teacher Safety and Overall Responsibility
The circular further advises teaching staff to:
- Remain cautious at all times
- Use vehicles for transportation whenever possible
- Avoid walking through isolated or difficult paths
- Leave campus only after confirming all children have departed safely
The BEO has stressed that overall responsibility for child safety—from arrival at school until reaching home—rests with school staff, who must also prioritize their own safety while implementing these measures.
