Reported Leopard Sighting Keeps Sambhal Farmers Out Of Harvesting Fields

Fear has gripped Ganga Bas village in Gunnour tehsil of Sambhal after reports of a leopard being spotted in the area over the past two days. The situation has left villagers worried, with many now avoiding visits to their fields.

The timing has added to the concern. Paddy and other crops are ready for harvesting, but farmers are hesitating to enter their fields because of the leopard’s presence. This has created difficulties for those who need to begin cutting the crops.

The fear increased further after an attack on a calf. Villagers said that on Thursday evening, a leopard attacked a cow’s calf in a field near the forest. The calf died after the attack, deepening concern among residents.

Several farmers have stopped their children from going outside their homes. As evening sets in, silence begins to spread across the village, with residents remaining cautious because of the reported leopard movement.

After learning about the incident, farmers informed the Forest Department. A Forest Department team reached the spot carrying a tranquilizer gun and nets. The team conducted a search operation in the nearby sugarcane fields and bushes in an effort to locate the leopard.

Local police also reached the village and listened to the problems faced by the residents. Police advised villagers to remain alert and instructed them not to go alone to the fields.

Forest Department officials said that the pugmarks are being examined. They also said that an attempt will soon be made to capture the leopard by placing a cage in the area.

For now, the Forest Department team is camping in the village while the search and monitoring operation continues. The reported presence of the leopard has kept farmers away from their fields at a time when paddy and other crops are ready for harvesting.