Following recent leopard sightings near Dirang village in Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district, the Bomdila Forest Division has issued a public advisory to residents, urging caution and discouraging travel during vulnerable times, particularly early mornings, evenings, and nights. This advisory comes in light of confirmation from local authorities regarding these sightings, with the Divisional Forest Officer, Obang Tayeng, emphasizing the need for vigilance to protect both human lives and livestock.
Residents are advised to avoid traveling alone, to move in small groups, and to make noise to announce their presence. Specific safety measures include the use of bright torches at night, choosing well-lit pathways, and being alert near potential hiding spots like bushes and drains. Vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, are especially encouraged to stay supervised, with parents recommended to escort children to school and the elderly to avoid risky areas.
Additionally, livestock should be secured in sheds at night, and pets kept indoors. Residents must also practice responsible waste disposal, avoiding leaving meat waste exposed, and any suspected attacks on livestock should be reported to the forest department before carcass disposal. In case of an encounter with a leopard, the public is instructed to remain calm, not run, maintain eye contact, and back away slowly. They are warned against provoking the animal and are urged to report sightings to local authorities without spreading unverified information on social media, which may incite panic.
As preventive actions, villagers are encouraged to clear dense underbrush around homes, enhance lighting near dark areas, and be proactive in safety measures. In related developments, members of the All Idu Mishmi Students’ Union raised concerns with local MLA Mutchu Mithi about administrative failures following tiger sightings in nearby villages, notably highlighting the lack of safety measures after a fatal incident involving a local officer. MLA Mithi committed to addressing these safety concerns in a forthcoming meeting with the Forest Minister, alongside AIMSU representatives, following a scheduled cycling event. The delegation has demanded accountability, including a criminal inquiry against the current DFO and his transfer to ensure public safety is prioritized.
