In Vikarabad district, the picturesque Anantagiri Hills, often referred to as the ‘Ooty of Telangana,’ is now the center of attention due to recent leopard sightings, raising alarms among government officials and locals.
On November 7, officials on election duty reported a leopard crossing the road near Anantagiri Hills. The Department of Forests was promptly notified, initiating concerns about the big cat’s presence in the region.
The apprehension escalated on the morning of November 9 when a leopard was sighted in the Gudur and Gudupalle mango groves, approximately ten kilometers from Vikarabad. Farmers in the area recounted a close encounter as the leopard attempted to pounce while they operated an electric motor for irrigation.
Additional reports from the Gudum area, on the opposite side of Anantagiri Hills, indicated a leopard escaping with a goat from a herd of 100. The owner, Shankaraiah, clarified that he didn’t witness the incident but received information from others.
The uncertainty persists regarding the number and species of big cats in the area, with concerns growing over potential encounters with leopards or cheetahs.
A heightened state of alert prevails as forest department officials and patrols intensify efforts to locate and manage the leopards in Vikarabad district. Villagers are on edge following a recent incident where a leopard attempted to snatch a calf in the Pudur area, though villagers successfully scared it away.
In response to the unfolding situation, the Forest Department of Vikarabad district, on November 12, installed warning boards along key roads in Anantagiri Hills. Travelers are advised to exercise caution, especially during the holiday season when the region attracts a significant number of tourists.
To prioritize public safety, temporary restrictions have been imposed on entry into the jungle areas of Anantagiri Hills. Visitors are required to obtain permission before venturing into these areas, adding an extra layer of precaution amid the prevailing uncertainty about the big cats’ presence.
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