The tranquil town of Vasai in Maharashtra finds itself gripped with fear as residents report multiple sightings of a roaming leopard over the past 10 days. However, amidst growing concerns, questions arise regarding the efficacy of local forest authorities in managing the situation promptly.
Activists and residents alike express dissatisfaction with the response of the range forest officer of Mandvi, who allegedly failed to take swift action to capture the big cat. Concerns deepen as it is revealed that local forest officials did not escalate the matter to their seniors in Nagpur, assuming their preoccupation with election duties. The leopard, believed to have ventured from the nearby Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, raises concerns about encroachment and illegal practices disrupting its natural habitat.
With nearly 12,000 residents residing in the vicinity of Killabandar and Pachubandar villages near Vasai fort, where the leopard is suspected to be hiding, anxiety mounts. To address the situation, approximately 15 to 20 forest officials and NGO workers are stationed in the area, with some engaging in night patrols to safeguard residents after sunset. The predicament underscores broader issues of wildlife conservation and habitat protection, with activists accusing the forest department of negligence towards activities that disturb leopards’ natural environment. As Vasai grapples with the presence of the elusive predator, calls for proactive measures to ensure the safety of residents and the preservation of wildlife habitats grow louder. In light of these developments, there is an urgent need for coordinated efforts between local authorities, wildlife experts, and community stakeholders to devise a comprehensive strategy for managing human-wildlife conflicts and safeguarding both human lives and animal welfare in Vasai.
