By Swati
Motahaldu 31 August 26
Trap Cameras Installed, Solar Lights Deployed as Forest Teams Maintain Round-the-Clock Surveillance .The Forest Department has intensified surveillance across several forest-fringe settlements in the Motahaldu area following complaints and growing apprehension among villagers over the possible movement of tigers and leopards.The areas under heightened vigilance include Bhandari Farm, Motahaldu, Halduchaur, Jaggi Halduchaur, Parma, Vikas Puri, the Nanda-Sunanda Temple area, Bakulia and Jaggi Gram Sabha. Several of these locations are situated close to forest boundaries, raising concerns over possible wildlife movement towards inhabited areas.Taking the concerns of residents seriously, the Forest Department has launched an intensive monitoring and patrolling operation in the identified sensitive zones. The operation is being conducted on the orders of Sub-Divisional Forest Officer Anil Kumar Joshi and under the direction of Forest Range Officer Chandan Singh Adhikari.Forest teams have been deployed for intensive daytime and nighttime patrolling to detect and track any possible movement of tigers or leopards. Officials and field personnel have been directed to maintain heightened vigilance and closely monitor developments in the area.To establish the presence and movement patterns of wildlife, trap cameras have been installed at suspected animal routes and other vulnerable locations. The camera footage is being monitored to help officials assess wildlife activity and determine further action.The department has also taken steps to improve the safety of villagers after dark. Solar lights have been installed at selected sensitive locations, particularly along areas where nighttime movement by residents is considered vulnerable.Officials said surveillance would remain continuous and that appropriate action would be taken depending on the findings of field teams and evidence of wildlife activity. The department has directed its personnel to remain on high alert, with intensive night patrols continuing in the affected areas.The Forest Department has appealed to residents to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary movement near forest boundaries, isolated stretches and vulnerable areas during nighttime.Villagers have also been urged to immediately inform the nearest forest official or the Forest Department if they spot a tiger, leopard or any other wild animal, or observe signs of wildlife movement.The department stressed that timely reporting of sightings and cooperation from residents would be crucial in preventing potential conflict between humans and wildlife and ensuring public safety.
