Photo used for indicative purpose only
Leopard sighting in Shimla caught near residential stretch of US Club road
Shimla, Feb 17,
An early morning leopard sighting reportedly triggered concern in the US Club stretch of Shimla after the animal was seen near Shilli Chowk along the Jakhu ridge.
The sighting was reported by Sushil, a keyman with Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam, who said, he noticed the leopard while heading towards the Jakhu and Lakkar Bazaar areas for routine water supply duty. According to him, the animal stood on the road for a brief moment before moving towards a nearby residential colony when headlights from an approaching vehicle illuminated the stretch.
Officials have not independently confirmed the sighting so far.
Residents of the US Club belt, which borders the forested slopes of Jakhu hills, said leopard movement has been intermittently reported in recent weeks. In a separate incident last week, CCTV footage from the Kuftadhar locality allegedly showed a leopard roaming in the area, heightening local anxiety.
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Forest Department officials stated that leopards sometimes stray close to habitations located along forest edges, particularly during night and early morning hours, often in search of prey such as stray dogs. Residents have been advised to remain cautious and avoid walking alone in poorly lit stretches.
Authorities said the situation is being monitored and trapping measures may be considered if sightings continue. Locals have meanwhile called for stronger night vigilance and sustained efforts to manage stray dog populations in vulnerable green belt areas.
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