Residents of Gudauli village near Kanalichhina in Pithoragarh district were frightened on Sunday afternoon after a leopard remained active along a route connecting the village to the forest.
The leopard reportedly ran back and forth in the area for a considerable time. Concern over its presence forced residents to stay indoors. Villagers later made loud noises, after which the animal moved towards the forest.
Residents felt relieved once the leopard had left the area. The incident has renewed concern among people living close to forest routes, although no injury was reported in the available information.
Safety measures in Bhandarigaon
The Forest Department is also running a public safety campaign in Bhandarigaon and nearby areas of Gangolihat, where leopard movement has been reported. The campaign focuses on protection, monitoring and public awareness.
Divisional Forest Officer Aditya Ratna said the department has installed a fox light and one solar light to improve visibility in the area. An anider has also been placed to alert wildlife, while trap cameras are being used to record animal activity.
The department has increased patrols in the area. Cages have been placed at sensitive locations, and drone cameras are being used for surveillance, according to the information provided by the Forest Department.
Officials are taking these steps after a 9-year-old boy became a victim of a leopard attack in Bhandarigaon on 3 October. The continuing patrols and monitoring measures are intended to prevent a repeat of such incidents.
The safety campaign combines lighting, warning equipment, camera surveillance, cages, drone monitoring and public awareness efforts. Residents’ response to the Gudauli sighting also helped drive the leopard back towards the forest.
Conclusion
A leopard’s movement near Gudauli temporarily confined residents to their homes, while forest officials continue patrols, surveillance and safety measures in nearby leopard-sensitive areas of Pithoragarh district.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Where was the leopard seen on Sunday?
The leopard was seen near Gudauli village in Kanalichhina, along a route connecting the village with the forest.
Q. When did the Gudauli incident take place?
The leopard was seen on Sunday afternoon.
Q. How did the leopard leave the area?
Villagers made loud noises, after which the leopard moved towards the forest.
Q. What safety campaign is being conducted nearby?
The Forest Department is conducting a public safety campaign in Bhandarigaon and surrounding areas of Gangolihat.
Q. What equipment has the Forest Department installed?
Officials have installed a fox light, one solar light, an anider and trap cameras. Cages and drone cameras are also being used at sensitive locations.
Q. Why have patrols been increased in the area?
Patrols have been increased after a 9-year-old boy became a victim of a leopard attack in Bhandarigaon on 3 October.
