Major action taken against man-eating leopard in Pauri Pokhara, 3 cages installed, 2 hunters deployed
In light of the increasing human-wildlife conflict in the Pokhara area of Pauri Garhwal’s development block, the Forest Department has taken strict measures. The Chief Wildlife Warden has granted permission to capture the identified leopard and, if all other efforts fail, to shoot it.
According to DFO Garhwal Mahatim Yadav, permission to capture and trap leopards by caging and tranquilizing them is granted under Section 11(1)(a) of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The order applies only to identified leopards and will remain in effect for one month.
Three cages and 20 trap cameras have been installed for surveillance in the area. Two licensed hunters have also been deployed, and drone surveillance is also being conducted.
For the safety of villagers and children, schools in the area have been declared closed until April 6th. Once schools reopen, teams from the Forest and Revenue Departments will make arrangements to safely transport children from their homes to school. Arrangements are also being made for fodder and leaves for the cattle.
