Leopard Captured on CCTV Entering Shimla Residential Building
A startling incident unfolded in the picturesque hill station of Shimla when a leopard was captured on a CCTV camera entering a multi-storey residential building in the Navbahar area. This event occurred on Wednesday night, sending ripples of concern through the local community. The building is situated in a location surrounded by dense forest and is approximately 2 kilometers from the state secretariat in Chhota Shimla, highlighting the close proximity of wildlife to urban settlements.
Detailed CCTV Footage Reveals Leopard's Movements
The CCTV footage, which has since gone viral, provides a clear and chilling account of the leopard's actions. At precisely 11:23 PM on January 21, the big cat was seen calmly entering the residential building. It then proceeded to climb the staircase, making its way up to the second floor. After a brief period, the leopard exited the premises without causing any harm to the residents or property. Authorities believe that the animal left after failing to find suitable prey within the building.
Residents Unharmed Despite Close Encounter
The house where this incident took place is owned by Nandini Pathania. At the time of the leopard's entry, family members were present inside the home. Fortunately, no one encountered the spotted predator directly, and all occupants remained safe throughout the ordeal. This narrow escape has heightened awareness about the potential dangers posed by wildlife encroaching into residential zones.
History of Leopard Sightings in Navbahar
This is not the first instance of leopard activity in the Navbahar area. There have been previous sightings and reports of attacks on pets, indicating a persistent presence of these predators in the vicinity. However, what makes this event particularly notable is that it marks the first time a leopard has been captured on CCTV camera while entering a building. This visual evidence has provided valuable insights into the behavior and movements of leopards in urban environments.
Local Demands for Increased Safety Measures
In response to this alarming incident, local residents have urgently called upon the forest department to take immediate action. Their demands include:
- Increasing night patrols in and around residential areas to monitor wildlife activity.
- Conducting regular checks on leopard movements to better understand their patterns.
- Implementing preventive measures such as installing more CCTV cameras and enhancing community awareness programs.
The community's plea underscores the need for a balanced approach to wildlife conservation and human safety, especially in regions where forested areas border human habitats.
