Budgam: The Wildlife Protection Department on Monday successfully captured two leopards during a carefully planned rescue operation at the Forest Nursery near the NEFT Campus in Ompora area of Budgam district, bringing relief to residents who had been living in fear following repeated sightings of the wild animals.
Officials said the operation was launched after the department received multiple complaints from local residents regarding the movement of the leopards in the vicinity of residential areas over the past several days.
A team of trained wildlife personnel reached the spot and carried out the operation with utmost caution. Both leopards were safely trapped without causing any harm to the animals or posing any risk to the public.
The successful operation ended days of anxiety among residents of Ompora, who welcomed the department’s swift intervention and appreciated the prompt response in addressing the growing safety concerns.
Following the rescue, the Wildlife Protection Department urged people not to approach, provoke or attempt to capture wild animals if they are spotted in residential areas. Instead, the department advised citizens to immediately inform the nearest Wildlife Control Room or the concerned authorities so that trained personnel can respond appropriately.
Officials reiterated that the department remains committed to safeguarding human lives while ensuring the protection and conservation of wildlife. They also appealed to people living near forests and wildlife habitats to remain vigilant and extend full cooperation to rescue teams during such operations.
Incidents of leopard movement into human habitations occasionally occur in Kashmir, particularly in areas located close to forests, often due to habitat disturbance or the search for food. Wildlife officials have repeatedly stressed the importance of avoiding direct encounters and allowing trained teams to handle such situations safely. [KNT]
