Dharwad
For the past few days, sightings of a leopard around Karnataka University and Mansoor have caused concern among locals. Kuberappa Madivalappa Agasara of Manasura village reported losing a calf to the leopard. The scene was inspected by Deputy Commissioner Divya Prabhu. Instructions were given by her to Tahsildar Dr. Dundappa Hugara and Zonal Forest Officer Pradeep Pawar to raise awareness in surrounding villages about the leopard and to caution against walking alone.
Compensation for owners who lost their cows due to leopard attacks was also suggested. The villagers were advised by the Deputy Commissioner not to roam alone, especially in the evenings and at night, and to keep their cattle close to home. Electricity is being provided in the morning for IP sets to aid agricultural activities.
The forest department was directed to focus on forest area villages and to build more water tanks for wild animals due to dried-up lakes and ponds caused by drought. Plans are underway to set up lighter bait to catch the leopard. Officials assure villagers that efforts are ongoing to capture the leopard without causing alarm.
