Day and night sightings in Radhanagar
Forest department personnel installed a cage in the Radhanagar area late on Wednesday.
BICHOLIM
Fear has gripped residents of the Bordem–Bicholim area following an increase in leopard movement over the past few days.
Over the last three days, leopard sightings have been reported in Radhanagar during the night as well as in broad daylight on Wednesday, causing panic among locals.
On Wednesday evening, residents of Radhanagar held a special meeting and submitted a letter to forest officials informing them of the situation. Acting swiftly, forest department personnel installed a cage in the Radhanagar area late on Wednesday night. Villagers have since remained on alert.
Earlier, after repeated complaints of leopard sightings, forest officials had kept vigil throughout Thursday night to monitor the leopard’s movement. Forest officers also set up a trap in the wooded area of Borde on Friday evening, but the animal was not spotted at that time.
Several residents have now reported sightings during the early morning and late night hours. Incidents of the leopard attacking and killing pet dogs in the locality have further heightened fear among the people.
Local resident Vishwas Gawas had also submitted a letter to the forest department demanding immediate action. Following a site inspection, officials installed the trap and placed bait inside, expressing hope that the leopard would be captured.
Meanwhile, the area includes Borde Math, Datta Temple, and Shantadurga Higher Secondary School, which witness significant daily movement of residents and students. As a result, concern has grown among students and parents. The forest department is closely monitoring the situation and has appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and exercise caution.
