Special measures for safety on Tirumala footpath amid Leopard movement

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Forests and Environment Pawan Kalyan has directed officials to take stringent measures to ensure the safety of devotees using the Alipiri footpath to Tirumala, following reports of leopard movement near Dorasani Mantapam.

Reviewing the situation after officials briefed him about the recent wildlife activity, the Deputy Chief Minister instructed the Forest Department, the TTD Forest Wing, and TTD Vigilance to work in close coordination to safeguard pilgrims while ensuring that their pilgrimage remains peaceful and uninterrupted.

Officials informed him that H.A.N.U.M.A.N. (Hanuman) teams have already been deployed and alerted in vulnerable stretches of the footpath to monitor leopard movement and respond swiftly to any emergency. Pawan Kalyan directed authorities to strengthen surveillance in sensitive areas and maintain constant vigilance until the situation is fully under control.

He also instructed officials to clear dense vegetation along the trekking route to improve visibility and reduce the possibility of wildlife encounters. Pilgrims should be encouraged to walk in groups, particularly through vulnerable stretches, and awareness measures should be intensified to ensure they remain cautious throughout the journey.

Emphasising that public safety is the government’s highest priority, the Deputy Chief Minister said every precaution must be taken to prevent any untoward incidents without causing unnecessary panic among devotees. He instructed officials to provide regular updates and reassure pilgrims through effective communication while maintaining robust security arrangements along the trekking route.