Fear has gripped several villages near the Ratanei forest area under Digapahandi Range after a video of a leopard allegedly roaming in the nearby hills went viral on social media. The incident has created panic among residents in the region.
Villagers Avoid Going Out After Evening
Locals living near the Digapahandi–Chikiti road have reportedly stopped stepping out after sunset due to fear of a possible leopard movement. The situation has also led to a noticeable drop in traffic movement on the road during evening hours.
Residents, including goat herders and farmers, have expressed serious concern about safety in nearby villages, as the presence of a big cat in the area is believed to be possible.
Forest Department Steps Up Surveillance
The Forest Department has intensified monitoring operations in the area. Officials have deployed:
- Trap cameras in strategic forest zones
- Drones to track possible leopard movement
- Ground teams for continuous surveillance
Digapahandi Ranger Dibya Ranjan Sahu stated that the department is closely monitoring the situation and urged villagers not to panic while staying alert.
Awareness Drive Underway
Forest officials are also conducting awareness campaigns in nearby villages to ensure people remain cautious and informed. Authorities have assured that monitoring is ongoing in the forest and hill regions near Ratanei.
Viral Video Raises Concern
The viral video showing a leopard-like movement has triggered widespread concern across villages in the Digapahandi–Chikiti belt, although officials are still verifying the authenticity and movement pattern of the animal.
