ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): A reported lion sighting in Islamabad’s historic Saidpur village has sparked concern and confusion after the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) found no concrete evidence of the animal’s presence during a search operation.
According to the IWMB, its rescue team reached Saidpur village after receiving information about a lion in the area. However, the team found no lion, footprints or other signs confirming the animal’s presence. The body of a pet dog reportedly killed by the lion was also not recovered.
The wildlife rescue team remains on alert and is continuing to monitor the situation. Residents have been advised to immediately report any sighting of a wild animal to the IWMB helpline at 0309-5302425.
The incident reportedly began around 1:15 am on the night between Sunday and Monday, when residents informed authorities about a possible lion sighting. According to residents, the wildlife team contacted them around 1:30 am and asked for the location where the animal had allegedly been seen.
The conflicting accounts have added an element of mystery to the incident, with questions being raised over whether a lion was actually present in the area or whether the reported sighting was mistaken.
Saidpur village is located near the foothills of the Margalla Hills, which form part of the natural habitat of the common leopard. Authorities have therefore urged residents to remain cautious and report any wild animal sightings.
Historic Saidpur Village
Saidpur is one of Islamabad’s most historic settlements. It was reportedly the largest of the villages affected by the construction of Islamabad, with a population of around 16,000 in 1947. Historically associated with pottery makers, the village was also known as a village of potters.
It is the only one of the original villages in the Islamabad area that continues to exist today. Because of its historical significance, restoration work began in 2006, and the area was developed as a model village. Its historic temple, gurdwara and dharamshala have also been restored.
