Hampi (Vijayanagara): A leopard was spotted on Sunday night in the Janata Plot residential area of the Unesco World Heritage Site, Hampi, in Vijayanagara district, triggering fear among residents.The animal appeared at a short distance from Sri Virupaksha Temple, a main attraction at the historic site. The area, usually crowded with tourists and locals, was affected by the news of leopard’s presence.
The leopard roaming the streets of Janata Plot was captured on a local home’s CCTV camera last night. This morning, residents who noticed the CCTV footage were alarmed. Hampi has rocky hills where leopards reside, but the animal’s intrusion into the residential area has caused concern.Residents urged forest department officials to capture the leopard, and relocate it. “We’re scared that a leopard entered the residential area in Hampi. Many domestic and foreign tourists visit the World Heritage Site, Hampi, but there was no threat from wild animals like leopards. The authorities concerned should shift these dangerous animals from Hampi to boost tourism,” appealed Ramesh S, a resident of Prakash Nagar, Hampi.Hosapete RFO Kaushik Dalavai clarified that it is common for leopards to be spotted in Hampi area. The rocky caves in the region are suitable for their habitation. So far, instances of leopards causing harm to anyone’s life or injuring people have not been reported, he said. “Therefore, there is no need for people to panic. Since dogs are easy prey for leopards, they sometimes visit residential areas and then leave. It cannot be said that their habitat is fixed in that place,” he added.
