Panic has gripped the Kareda region in Bhilwara district following a sharp rise in panther movements and a sudden violent encounter. A terrifying incident unfolded near the renowned Avara Mata Temple in Chimamba, where a panther launched a fierce assault on a motorcyclist. The dramatic attack has triggered widespread fear across the entire neighbourhood, prompting forest department officials to rush to the spot and conduct a thorough inspection.
Initial field investigations by the forest department revealed large panther footprints at the scene of the attack. Alongside these tracks, officials also discovered smaller paw marks belonging to cubs, confirming that a female panther accompanied by her offspring is roaming the area. Taking immediate safety precautions, forest authorities have stepped up patrolling and surveillance across adjacent localities to prevent any untoward incidents.
Ambush on a Moving Motorcycle
Narayan Lal Gujar, a resident of Bhilwara, was riding his motorcycle from Chimamba towards Kareda when the incident occurred. As he approached the Avara Mata Temple, a panther lying in wait by the roadside suddenly leaped onto his moving two-wheeler. Caught completely off guard by the aggressive pounce, Narayan Lal could not steady himself in time. The attack left deep claw marks from the wild animal on his hands and legs. The daylight assault on a main thoroughfare has left villagers deeply shaken.
Heavy Machinery Noise Aggravates Wildlife
Upon receiving word of the attack, Chimamba Forester Radheshyam Paliwal arrived at the location alongside his team. The wildlife officials inspected the terrain and analysed the pugmarks left behind. According to officials, the loud noise and movement generated by a JCB machine operating nearby on construction work likely provoked the mother panther, making her aggressive in order to protect her cubs. Acknowledging the delicate situation, the forest department immediately ordered a halt to the construction work involving the JCB.
Forest Department Advisory and Local Demands
Authorities are currently setting up caution boards along paths leading to the temple to warn devotees and passersby of the active wildlife. A dedicated forest team is keeping a close watch on every movement of the adult panther and its cubs. The department has urged local villagers and pilgrims to exercise extreme caution near the temple, avoid walking alone on isolated paths, and refrain from cornering or provoking the animals if spotted, advising them to notify officials immediately instead. Meanwhile, anxious villagers have demanded that the administration install cages in the area without delay.
