Home / Environment / Leopard Sighting on Tirumala Route Sparks Pilgrim Fear
Leopard Sighting on Tirumala Route Sparks Pilgrim Fear
22 Sep
Summary
- Leopard spotted on Tirumala's Alipiri pedestrian route near step 2,754.
- Pilgrims advised to trek in groups due to increased leopard activity.
- Past attacks in 2023 led to heightened security and leopard trapping.
A recent leopard sighting on the Alipiri pedestrian route to Tirumala on Tuesday has caused renewed concern among pilgrims. The wild animal was observed on a tree near step 2,754, leading several devotees to flee and alert officials. In response, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) vigilance, forest department, and police personnel have increased patrols and surveillance along the route.
Pilgrims have been urged to remain vigilant and travel in groups, especially through known vulnerable stretches. This incident brings back memories of recurring leopard movements through the Seshachalam forest. In 2023, two significant encounters occurred, including the tragic death of a six-year-old girl on August 11, marking the first fatal attack on this route.
Following the 2023 attacks, authorities launched a crackdown, installing camera traps and capturing six leopards by September 2023. Enhanced security measures, including group trekking with escorts and increased monitoring, were implemented. Officials noted that food waste attracts prey animals, which in turn draws leopards closer to the pilgrim path. Continuous monitoring remains in place, with a leopard and bear movement recorded in October 2023.
