Thrissur: Residents of Palappilli, a village in Thrissur, have demanded urgent intervention from forest officials after a pet dog and a calf were taken by a leopard early on Wednesday. The domestic animals reportedly belonged to Kalladikunnathuveettil Ali, a local resident.
Panchayat Member Raises Concerns
Varantharappilli panchayat member Sathi Ravi stated that a leopard had attacked domestic animals four months ago, but forest officials did not take any action. She highlighted that leopard attacks are occurring in residential areas close to a rubber estate owned by private groups.
Ravi alleged that the estate owners are not regularly clearing the undergrowth in the plantation area and its peripheries. This negligence allows wild animals to hide, and people often encounter them when they come dangerously close. She further mentioned that residents and people's representatives will visit the estate manager's office on Thursday to demand clearance of undergrowth in the area.
Lack of Response from Forest Officials
Ravi accused forest officials of not responding to repeated demands for installing camera traps to track the leopard. She emphasized that people are living in constant fear. Ali and his family, along with other financially poor families, reside in thatched houses attached to the rubber estates. She urged forest officials and estate owners to take necessary steps to eliminate human-animal conflicts in the area.
Forest Department Response
When contacted, Varantharappilly forest range officer Ratheesh P D said that patrolling would be intensified in the area following the leopard attack. He added that cameras would also be installed if required.
