VALPOI
A sense of fear has gripped residents of Guleli in Sattari after reports of frequent leopard movement over the past few days.
Sightings, especially during evening hours, have raised serious concerns among locals.
According to available information, a leopard has been spotted multiple times near the Murmune–Paikul road in Guleli. Several residents claim to have seen the animal from a distance, and some even attempted to capture its movement on mobile phones. These repeated sightings have strengthened fears about the leopard’s presence in the area.
With the cashew harvesting season currently underway, many locals regularly visit plantations and forested areas. However, due to the fear of leopard encounters, residents are now hesitant to venture into their fields and orchards.
Some have reduced their activities, while others have temporarily stopped collecting cashews, raising concerns about potential loss of income.
Meanwhile, local panch member Akshita Anil Gaude has submitted a memorandum to the forest department in Valpoi, urging immediate action to capture or control the leopard before any untoward incident occurs.
Residents have also demanded that the forest department deploys a team to survey the area, install cages if necessary, and increase night patrols. The situation is particularly worrying as it poses a threat to school children, farmers, and elderly citizens.
Authorities and local representatives have appealed to citizens to remain cautious—avoid moving alone, refrain from stepping out after dark, and immediately report any suspicious wildlife activity to the forest department.
The situation remains tense, with locals hoping for swift intervention to ensure safety and restore normalcy in the area.
