Baramulla, Aug 11: A day after Deputy Commissioner Baramulla visited the Kanlibagh Microwave area following reports of leopard roaming in the locality, a massive operation has been launched to trap the wild animal.

On the directions of Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Syed Fakhrudin Hamid, a 40-member joint team of Wildlife Protection Department, Forest Department and J&K Police has launched a full-fledged search and trapping operation in Kanlibagh and adjoining areas.
According to officials, the team is equipped with all relevant instruments including trapping cages, tranquilizer guns, drone cameras, night-vision devices, nets and trap cameras. The area has been cordoned off and door-to-door awareness is being conducted.
Locals had reported frequent sighting of a leopard in the Microwave Colony, Kanlibagh area for the last few days, triggering panic among residents, especially during evening hours. Taking cognizance of the matter, DC Baramulla visited the spot, met the locals and assured immediate action for the safety of the people and their livestock.
Following his directions, the Wildlife Department swung into action.
"A 30 -member team with all equipments has been deployed. Four cages have been installed at strategic locations and drone surveillance is being carried out to track the movement of the leopard. The operation will continue till the animal is trapped safely," an official of the Wildlife Department said.
Meanwhile, the district administration has appealed to the people of Kanlibagh, Microwave Colony and adjoining areas to remain cautious, avoid venturing out alone during morning and evening hours, keep children indoors and not to move near dense bushes.
People have been asked to immediately inform the Wildlife Control Room Baramulla or Police Control Room in case of any fresh sighting.