Two more sheeps killed in Niali area

Even as vigil is being maintained and traps have been set to catch the elusive prowling wild animal, two more sheep were killed on Sunday night at Olansa village in the Niali area in Cuttack district.

So far, no wild animal was caught in the trap laid by the Forest Department. Meanwhile, to keep rumour mongers at bay, a massive awareness drive has been undertaken by forest officials to instil confidence among the panicky residents. Posters have been put up at villages and leaflets have been distributed among residents. 

People have been asked to inform forest personnel if any suspicious animal is spotted. A toll-free number has also been launched to help the villagers.

Forest and Environment Minister Bijayshree Routray said, “We are doing our level best. A special team from Similipal is on its way to Niali to catch the killer animal. Death of 100 sheep has been reported from the area. There is no Government guideline to provide compensation for death of lambs. The matter has been brought to the notice of the Chief Minister.”