Shimla: A taxi driver narrowly escaped a leopard attack in the Lalpani area of Himachal Pradesh capital Shimla late Sunday (March 2, 2025) night, triggering panic among residents.
The incident occurred near Daarni Ka Baghicha around 11 pm when the leopard suddenly pounced on the driver, tearing his clothes and attempting to drag him away.
The victim, identified as Manoj Kumar, had just parked his vehicle a short distance from his home when he was ambushed. “The leopard first attacked my leg and as I tried to defend myself, it struck my chest, ripping my clothes,” Manoj recounted.
Leopard flees as victim fights back
In a desperate attempt to save himself, he grabbed the leopard by the neck and held its mouth shut with both hands. Hearing the commotion, locals rushed to the spot, forcing the leopard to flee into the darkness.
Residents have expressed growing concern over repeated leopard sightings and attacks in the area. “This is not the first time such an incident has happened. The forest department visits after every attack but takes no concrete action,” a local resident complained.
Residents want trap laid to capture leopard
Following the attack, residents have urged the forest department to capture the maneater leopard before another mishap occurred.
Officials have assured that they were monitoring the situation and would take necessary measures to prevent further attacks.
Sunil Chadha