Munish Sood
MANDI:
A man-eater leopard unleashed terror in the Balh Valley of Mandi district early Saturday morning, killing one person and injuring five others in a series of attacks across three villages before being shot d*ead by local residents.
The leopard first struck in Chandyal village, attacking unsuspecting residents during the early morning hours. It then moved to Bhadyal, where it mauled four people, spreading panic and forcing residents to flee their homes. The animal finally reached Malwana village, where it fatally attacked a man.
The deceased has been identified as 40-year-old Balveer Singh, son of Thungu Ram, a native of Bhyuli village. He was residing in Mandi city and had come to the area to visit relatives. His body has been sent for post-mortem examination.
The injured include Sahib Singh of Bihar, Deenanath of Bhadyal, Champa Devi of Malwana, Janit of Bhadyal and Rekha Devi of Bhadyal. All five were shifted to Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Medical College, Nerchowk, where they are undergoing treatment.
Following the attacks, fear gripped the entire Balh valley as residents poured onto the streets carrying sticks and sharp weapons to protect themselves. When the leopard attempted another attack, locals managed to shoot it dead. The carcass has been taken for post-mortem examination.
Balh SDM Smritika Negi confirmed the incident, stating that one person had died, five others were injured and the leopard was killed during efforts to protect lives. She said the administration has provided immediate relief to the affected families and assured all possible assistance.
Mandi Divisional Forest Officer (DCF) Vasu Dogra said forest department teams reached the site promptly after receiving information and initiated necessary action. A detailed investigation was underway to determine the circumstances that led to the leopard becoming a threat, said Vasu Dogra.
The incident has once again highlighted the growing challenge of human-wildlife conflict in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in areas close to forest boundaries.
