Bengaluru's New Leopard Task Force: A Swift Solution to Urban Wildlife Encounters

In response to the recent incidents of leopards venturing into Bengaluru's residential areas, the Karnataka government is taking proactive measures by establishing a dedicated rapid-response leopard task force for the city. This decision comes after a leopard that had strayed into a residential locality was shot dead during a capture operation.

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In response to the recent incidents of leopards venturing into Bengaluru's residential areas, the Karnataka government is taking proactive measures by establishing a dedicated rapid-response leopard task force for the city. This decision comes after a leopard that had strayed into a residential locality was shot dead during a capture operation.

Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has directed his department to form this specialized team as part of efforts to manage the growing urban-wildlife interactions. He mentioned that the inadequate rainfall this year has driven some wild animals, including leopards, out of their natural habitat in search of food.

Leopard sightings have become more common on the outskirts of Bengaluru, particularly in hilly areas and regions close to forests. These encounters have raised concerns among the local residents. The forest department has been tasked with establishing a rapid response leopard task force in the city. This team will focus on capturing and relocating wild animals that venture into urban areas, ensuring their safe return to their natural habitat or rehabilitation centers.

The government has also expanded its existing rapid task forces, with two new teams at Bannerghatta and Ramanagara. Additionally, regions with known leopard and bear habitats will see the formation of task forces in every three districts. These teams will be equipped with advanced equipment to effectively manage wildlife encounters.

Minister Khandre emphasized the importance of proper training for the personnel in the Leopard Task Force. He called for conducting mock drills to assess their preparedness and equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge.

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The recent incident that led to the shooting of a leopard in the AECS Layout and Kudlu Gate near Singasandra prompted these actions. The forest department had launched an extensive search operation to locate the big cat and attempted to tranquilize and trap it. When these efforts failed, they were left with no choice but to euthanize the animal.

Another leopard sighting was reported in Chikkathogur, off the NICE (Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprises) road, further highlighting the need for swift and effective responses to manage human-wildlife conflicts in urban areas.