Panchkula residents faced renewed fear this week as a massive python was captured after a tense two-day search operation, mere days after a leopard sighting had already put the area on edge.
Two-Day Hunt for a Giant Reptile
The incident unfolded in Chowki village, where locals reported several pets and stray dogs, along with a few goats, mysteriously disappearing over the past week. Suspicion quickly fell on the presence of a large serpent in the vicinity. The full-grown python, measuring approximately 12 feet in length, was finally located and captured on Monday.
Leading the rescue effort, snake catcher Liaqat Khan detailed the strenuous operation. "We tracked the reptile continuously for 2 days," Khan said. "Today, we spotted it hiding in bushes along the roadside, trying to sneak into a storm water drain." Following its safe capture, the team released the python into its natural habitat within the Morni forest reserve.
Sector 27 Faces Another Serpent Scare
Adding to the growing anxiety among citizens, a second python was rescued from a residential area in Sector 27 of Panchkula around the same time. This reptile, believed to be a younger python measuring between 5 to 6 feet, was found near houses.
Snake catcher Bahadur Khan responded to the call from alarmed residents. "The snake was moving near houses in Sector 27. We caught it promptly after receiving information. Thankfully, no one was injured," he stated, confirming the snake was captured without harm.
A Pattern of Wildlife Intrusions Raises Alarm
These back-to-back incidents highlight a worrying trend of wild animals straying into human settlements in Panchkula. Just three days prior to the python rescues, a leopard had entered Sector 6, roaming residential streets and causing widespread panic. Although forest officials set up cages, the leopard managed to evade capture and flee.
The recent spate of encounters has significantly raised concerns among the local population. Residents are now urgently calling for heightened vigilance and stronger preventive measures from forest and wildlife authorities. The demand is for a balanced approach that ensures public safety while also protecting the region's wildlife.
