Almora.
Residents of Lala Bazaar, Nanda Devi, Upreti Khola, Bishtakuda, Gopaldhara, Chinakhan, Dharanaula and nearby areas of Almora city are living in fear due to the rising presence of leopards. Especially after dusk, people are afraid to step out of their homes, disrupting normal life in the city.
President of Almora City Congress Committee, Tara Chand Joshi, said that the frequent appearance of leopards has created a serious threat to the safety of children, women, and the elderly. He termed such wildlife activity in the city as highly alarming and demanded immediate and concrete action from the Forest Department.
He further stated that Almora is known as a cultural city, and with the Navratri festival approaching, several activities are taking place including Ramleela rehearsals, idol-making of Goddess Durga, and preparation of Ravana effigies. Local artists and youths often return home late at night from these activities, making their safety a major concern.
Joshi also pointed out that videos of leopard sightings from these areas are continuously going viral on social media, yet the Forest Department appears to remain inactive. He strongly emphasized that the department should immediately coordinate with local citizens and ward representatives, set up cages, and ensure regular patrolling in the city.
Issuing a stern warning, Joshi said that if the Forest Department fails to take urgent action, Congress workers along with the local public will be forced to launch an agitation.
