Elusive Leopard Sparks Renewed Panic in South Bengaluru's Anjanapura
Panic and anxiety have resurfaced among residents of Anjanapura, located near JP Nagar 9th Phase in south Bengaluru, following another sighting of an elusive leopard early Tuesday morning. The big cat was captured on a CCTV camera installed in the courtyard of a house close to the NICE corridor, marking the latest in a series of sightings that began approximately one week ago.
Forest Department's Ongoing Struggle to Capture the Animal
Officials from the Kaggalipura forest range, operating under the Bengaluru Urban forest division, have been camping in the area and conducting intensive combing operations since the initial sighting. Despite deploying a cage and installing camera traps at strategic locations, the leopard has successfully evaded capture for nearly a week, raising significant concerns among the local community.
The repeated failures to apprehend the animal have intensified fear and uncertainty, with residents questioning how long they must endure this precarious situation. Forest department teams remain on high alert, but the leopard's ability to avoid detection continues to challenge their efforts.
Multiple Sightings Across Residential Blocks Heighten Tensions
The leopard was first spotted near Anjanapura 7th Block about one week ago. On Tuesday, residents reported another sighting near 5th G Block, while unconfirmed reports also suggested the animal was seen in 8th Block. These repeated appearances across multiple residential areas have left the community deeply shaken and fearful for their safety.
"We don't know whether it is the same leopard or a different one," said a concerned resident. "Though forest officials visit the locality daily and carry out combing operations, the leopard is yet to be traced. People are afraid to step out of their homes for morning or evening walks. Many children step out early to catch school buses and vans. The entire area is gripped by panic."
Residents Appeal for Immediate Action from Authorities
In response to the ongoing threat, residents have appealed to both the forest department and the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) to initiate immediate measures aimed at capturing and rehabilitating the leopard while ensuring public safety. The community's plea underscores the urgent need for effective intervention to restore normalcy and alleviate widespread anxiety.
Forest Officials Maintain Situation is Under Control
Despite the growing panic, forest officials have maintained that the situation is under control and is being closely monitored. N Kamble, Range Forest Officer (RFO) of Kaggalipura, provided details on the department's response.
"A leopard was sighted in 7th Block following which the department placed a bait as a precautionary measure," Kamble stated. "The animal did not harm any humans but targeted pet dogs."
Officials confirmed that the leopard entered a house on Tuesday morning, located barely 100 metres from NICE Road. The area had no other buildings in the immediate vicinity, which may have facilitated the animal's movement. "A task force has been deployed, and officials visit the locality daily to monitor the situation and ensure public safety," Kamble added, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to manage the crisis.
The continued presence of the leopard in a densely populated urban area highlights the challenges of human-wildlife conflict in expanding cities like Bengaluru. As forest department teams persist in their combing operations, residents remain on edge, hoping for a swift and safe resolution to this alarming situation.
