Forest Dept Issues Safety Advisory Amid Leopard Sighting in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad: The Gujarat Forest Department has issued a public advisory urging residents to remain vigilant about wildlife movement, particularly leopards, and to take preventive measures to avoid human-animal conflict in residential areas and on the outskirts of the city.

The department has advised residents to keep their surroundings clean by clearing unnecessary bushes and dense vegetation around homes, societies and residential colonies. Pet animals such as dogs and chickens should be kept in secure enclosures.

People have also been urged not to throw leftover meat, bones or food waste outside their homes, as it can attract wild animals.

According to the advisory, the area around homes should be well-lit, and people should avoid sleeping outdoors or under trees at night. Those living near gardens or agricultural fields have been asked not to bathe, wash clothes or carry out other outdoor activities during the evening or at night.

The Forest Department has further advised people to avoid walking or sitting in isolated open areas during the early morning, late evening or after dark. Children should not be allowed to play alone during these hours and must remain under adult supervision.

Residents have also been cautioned against venturing alone into bushy or deserted areas at night. If travel is necessary, they should move in groups, carry a torch and a stick, and make enough noise to alert wildlife of their presence.

In case a leopard or any other wild animal is spotted in a residential area, people have been urged not to panic or run. Instead, they should move family members and others to safety and immediately inform the Forest Department.

For wildlife-related emergencies, sightings or assistance, the department has asked citizens to contact its helpline on 1926 or 7600009845.

The department reiterated that protecting wildlife and exercising caution are both essential for ensuring the safety of people as well as animals. DeshGujarat