Leopard Attack in Raigad Sparks Fear Among Locals
A recent leopard attack in the remote hilly region of Poladpur, Raigad, has resulted in the death of a cow and heightened concerns among local residents. The incident, which occurred in the Mahalagur Morewadi area, has prompted the forest department to issue urgent safety warnings to the community.
Details of the Attack
The cow owner, Ashok More, discovered the animal lying in a pool of blood within a forested zone. Upon examination, he noted clear leopard tooth wounds on the neck and deep claw scratches across the stomach. Further evidence confirmed the predator's identity, as the big wild cat had devoured meat near the cow's tail, a characteristic feeding pattern of leopards.
Forest Department Response
Forest guards Bajirao Pawar and Amol Rokade swiftly responded to the scene after receiving information about the attack. They conducted a thorough panchnama (official documentation) to record the incident. In light of this event, officials have made a strong appeal to citizens, advising them to remain calm but vigilant.
Key safety recommendations include:
- Avoiding panic and maintaining composure
- Ensuring children are not left unattended
- Refraining from traveling alone during nighttime hours
Context and Previous Sightings
Interestingly, the Poladpur range forest office had not reported any signs of leopard presence during the wildlife census conducted just last month. However, this incident follows earlier reports of leopard activity in the region. During the recent election period, photos of leopards crossing roads in front of vehicles went viral in the nearby Kotwal area, indicating possible movement of these predators.
The forest department continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of community awareness and precautionary measures to prevent further encounters with wildlife.
