Leopard Sightings Trigger Panic Near Srisailam
According to officials, the animals were first spotted on April 22 inside the Government Polytechnic College campus.
Kurnool: Repeated sightings of two leopards near educational institutions in Sunnipenta, close to Srisailam, have triggered panic among residents and students over the past few days.
According to officials, the animals were first spotted on April 22 inside the Government Polytechnic College campus. On May 2 at around 7 am, two leopards were again seen inside the Government ITI College campus, heightening concerns in the area.
Locals said one of the big cats entered the ITI college premises and climbed the compound wall, sending people in the vicinity into a state of fear. Students and residents fled the spot and alerted forest officials.
Acting swiftly, forest department officials rushed to the area and launched a search operation to trace the animals’ movement. CCTV footage reviewed by authorities confirmed the presence of two leopards roaming in and around the locality. Earlier sightings near the Srisailam Polytechnic College indicate that the animals have been repeatedly venturing into human habitations.
A senior official from the Srisailam Reserve Forest confirmed the sightings. “We have verified the presence of two leopards in the area. Our teams are closely monitoring the situation,” the officer said, adding that another round of inspection would be conducted on May 3 and necessary steps, including setting up cages if required, would be taken.
“We have received information about the movement of two leopards in Sunnipenta and surrounding areas. Our teams are actively monitoring the situation and making efforts to trace and safely capture the animals,” a forest range officer at Srisailam said.
“Based on CCTV footage, the presence of two leopards has been confirmed. We have deployed staff in the area and are taking all necessary precautions to prevent any untoward incidents,” a forest department official said.
Officials suspect that the animals may have strayed from the deep Nallamala Forest into nearby habitations, possibly in search of water amid prevailing heat conditions.
So far, no attacks on people or livestock, including cattle, goats or dogs, have been reported, and no injuries have been recorded.
Local Chenchu residents said the animals might be frequently moving around the same area, raising concerns among people living in the vicinity.
Residents have urged authorities to take immediate measures. Local resident Namburi Shivayya appealed to officials to prevent the animals from entering residential areas and ensure public safety.
In response, officials issued a public advisory asking people in Sunnipenta and nearby areas to remain vigilant. “People are advised not to venture out alone, especially during evening hours. If necessary, they should move in groups and remain alert,” officials cautioned.
Officials added that due to extreme heat and possible water scarcity in forest areas, wild animals may stray into human habitations, and measures are being taken to ensure both public safety and wildlife protection.
