The historically significant Aauwa region in Pali is currently grappling with a unique wave of fear as the continuous presence of a leopard has unsettled residents across the village and surrounding areas. Recently, the wild animal was spotted near the hill of the Sehwaj Hinglaj Mata Temple close to Banta village near Aauwa, sending ripples of panic through the entire neighborhood. The movement of the leopard in this historic terrain has raised deep concerns among villagers that the predator might target humans. Following the capture of the leopard's images via drone, the forest department has swiftly initiated a comprehensive search operation.
Forest Department Launches Intense Search
Upon receiving information about the incident, the forest department team immediately sprung into action, rushing to the spot to launch a wide-scale search operation. According to Surendersingh, the range forest officer of Marwar Junction, the terrain is quite rocky, which made it difficult to find fresh footprints of the leopard. However, older marks were spotted near a water source close to the hill. Based on these observations, track cameras are being installed to precisely trace the location of the leopard.
Caged Bait and Drone Monitoring
To safely rescue and capture the leopard, the forest department has placed a cage near the water body, equipped with bait. Department personnel including Umedsingh and Mukesh, along with the entire range team, are continuously patrolling the area. Drone cameras are also being deployed to keep a close watch on the leopard's movements across the hill and surrounding bushes.
Advisory Issued for Villagers and Herders
In view of the leopard's continuous movement, the administration and forest department have appealed to the residents of Banta and Aauwa to remain vigilant. People have been advised not to step out alone and to exercise extra caution, particularly during the night hours. Livestock owners have also been instructed to keep their animals tied in secure enclosures to prevent any unfortunate incidents.
Fear Persists for Three Months
Local farmers and villagers report that this leopard has been spotted repeatedly in the area for the past three months. Although it has only hunted smaller wildlife so far and has not attacked any human, the continuous roaming of the predator so close to residential areas and the temple has instilled deep fear among the locals. Everyone is now eagerly awaiting the forest department to capture the leopard as soon as possible.
