Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (NJC)

Mangaluru, Feb 28: Following reports of a leopard sighting in parts of the city, MLA Vedavyas Kamath held a meeting with forest department officials to assess the situation and review the precautionary measures taken to safeguard the public.

The leopard was reportedly seen during the night in Kadri Kaibattal and the Cordel area of Shaktinagar. CCTV cameras installed in these localities captured visuals of the animal moving around residential neighbourhoods, creating concern among residents. Forest officials suspect that the leopard sighted in both areas could be the same animal.

In response, the forest department has placed cages in the affected areas to capture the leopard. A team of forest personnel has also been deployed to conduct round-the-clock patrols to ensure public safety. Authorities believe that the leopard may have already moved back to nearby forest areas, but monitoring continues as a precaution.

Range forest officer Rajesh Baligar, through the MLA, appealed to the public to remain alert and to immediately inform the forest department if they spot the leopard or any other dangerous wild animal. Citizens can contact the department’s toll-free helpline number 1926 to facilitate prompt and effective action.

MLA Vedavyas Kamath emphasized that wild animals entering human settlements in search of food is a sensitive issue. He directed officials and staff to carry out their responsibilities carefully, ensuring both public safety and the humane handling of the situation.