Fear has gripped residents of Jagatpur village in outer Delhi after a leopard launched a brazen daylight attack on a calf, raising serious concerns that humans could be the next target.
The terrifying incident occurred on Tuesday morning when the big cat emerged from nearby scrubland and pounced on the domestic animal. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as the leopard dragged its prey into the dense vegetation.
Forest Department Springs Into Action
Following the attack, the Delhi Forest Department has deployed multiple teams to track the animal and ensure public safety. Officials have confirmed the presence of the leopard through pug marks and eyewitness accounts.
"We have set up cages and camera traps in the area to monitor the leopard's movements," stated a senior forest department official. "Our teams are conducting regular patrols and we've advised villagers to avoid venturing out alone, especially during early morning and late evening hours."
Villagers Living in Fear
Local residents are understandably terrified. Many recall that this isn't the first such incident in the area, with previous leopard sightings reported over recent months.
"We heard the calf crying and when we rushed out, we saw the leopard dragging it away," recounted one shaken villager. "Now we're afraid to let our children play outside or go to the fields alone. What if it attacks a person next time?"
Growing Human-Wildlife Conflict
This incident highlights the increasing human-wildlife conflicts in peripheral areas of Delhi, where urban expansion continues to encroach upon natural habitats. Conservationists point to shrinking forest corridors as a primary reason forcing wild animals into human settlements.
The forest department has issued an advisory urging residents to:
- Avoid walking alone in isolated areas during dawn and dusk
- Keep children under close supervision
- Install bright lights around residential compounds
- Report any suspicious movement or sightings immediately
As the search for the leopard continues, the entire village remains on edge, hoping for a peaceful resolution before the situation escalates further.
