A leopard was sightedin an upscale residential locality in Haryana’s Panchkula on Saturday afternoon, prompting the authorities to issue an alert in the area and its surrounding areas. After a three-hour operation, the leopard managed to evade forest and police teams and escaped into the forest area of Chandimandir.
The leopard was reportedly spotted around noon in Sector 6, which also houses government offices, including the police headquarters. The animal was first sighted in the house next to the house of former chief of army staff General V P Malik’s house. Several high-profile advocates also reside in the same lane, and the leopard kept hopping from one house to another, triggering panic among residents.
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Earlier, officials deployed a drone to track the leopard’s exact position. “The use of the drone is expected to assist in monitoring the leopard’s movements and facilitate a safer rescue operation,” a police officer said.
The incident occurred a day after a leopard had entered a house in Dabla village in the nearby Morni area. The house owners were awakened by the loud barking of a dog. Residents then raised an alarm, prompting the leopard to retreat into the jungle.
As sighting triggered panic among residents, teams from the forest department and Haryana Police arrived at the scene to capture the animal. (Express photo by Kamleshwar Singh)
On Saturday, authorities issued alerts for sectors 4, 8, 9, 12, and 17. Other areas like Mansa Devi and Majri are also under heightened surveillance.
On Saturday, authorities issued alerts for sectors 4, 8, 9, 12, and 17. Other areas like Mansa Devi and Majri are also under heightened surveillance.
The leopard’s movements were captured on nearby CCTV cameras, and the footage is being reviewed by the wildlife team. Increased patrolling in the area has been ordered, and the forest department is working closely with local police to coordinate the efforts.
The recent sightings have raised concerns about the safety of residents, especially in the Morni region. In villages like Dabla, it has become increasingly dangerous for people to walk on streets or alleys at night, as leopards have been spotted crossing the paths of vehicles, putting the lives of two-wheeler riders at risk.
A joint operation is currently underway to rescue the leopard and residents have been urged to stay indoors for their safety. (Express photo) 
As sighting triggered panic among residents, teams from the forest department and Haryana Police arrived at the scene to capture the animal. (Express photo by Kamleshwar Singh)
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