Leopard Sighting Sparks Scare On Alipiri Trekking Route
Officials advised devotees using the Alipiri and Srivari Mettu routes to remain alert: Reports
TIRUPATI: A leopard was spotted near Mokali Mitta on the Alipiri trekking route to Tirumala around 2 am on Monday, triggering concern among devotees using the pedestrian path.
As no devotees were present in the area at the time, a major incident was averted. On receiving information, TTD vigilance and security personnel, along with forest department officials, rushed to the spot and launched an operation to drive the animal back into the forest.
Officials advised devotees using the Alipiri and Srivari Mettu routes to remain alert and trek in groups. Parents were asked to take extra care of children and infants while passing through forested stretches.
Following the sighting, patrolling has been intensified along the trekking routes. Devotees were also urged to immediately alert officials about any leopard or other wild animal movement.
Monday’s sighting was reportedly the fourth on the Alipiri route in the past month. Leopards have also been spotted recently near Srivari Mettu, Papavinasanam and other forest fringe areas, prompting round-the-clock surveillance at vulnerable locations.
