Baramulla, Sep 7: A leopard was successfully captured in Mir Mohalla, Drangbal area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Sunday, bringing considerable relief to residents who had been living with concern following repeated movement of the wild animal in the locality.

According to officials, the Wildlife Department was alerted about the leopard’s presence in the area on September 4. Acting promptly on the information, the department, in coordination with Social Forestry and Forest Protection teams, launched a joint operation to locate and safely capture the animal.
Teams conducted search and monitoring operations in and around Mir Mohalla to ascertain the leopard’s movement and identify a suitable location for trapping it. Given the presence of residential areas, officials maintained caution throughout the operation to prevent any threat to residents as well as ensure the safety of the animal.
On September 5, a trapping cage was installed at a strategically selected location after assessing the movement pattern of the leopard. The teams subsequently maintained continuous surveillance and carried out searches around the area.
After nearly two days of monitoring and coordinated efforts, the leopard was successfully trapped on September 7.
The successful operation brought a sense of relief among residents of Mir Mohalla and adjoining areas, who had remained apprehensive about the possible presence of the animal close to inhabited areas.
Officials and field personnel remained engaged throughout the operation, carefully monitoring the situation and taking necessary precautions to ensure that the leopard was captured without causing harm to people or the animal.
The incident once again highlights the importance of timely reporting and coordinated response to wildlife movement near human settlements. With increasing interaction between wildlife and populated areas, particularly in regions adjoining forests and natural habitats, residents have been advised to remain cautious and immediately inform the concerned authorities if wild animals are spotted.
The Wildlife Department’s coordinated response also underscores the need for sustained monitoring of areas witnessing frequent wildlife movement. Such timely interventions can help prevent panic among residents while reducing the possibility of conflict between humans and wild animals.
The safe capture of the leopard has brought the situation under control, allowing residents of Drangbal and neighbouring areas to breathe a sigh of relief.