The Alipiri footpath, a revered pilgrimage route to the Tirumala temple in Andhra Pradesh, has been seeing crucial updates due to recent wildlife encounters that have deeply affected pilgrims and guardians alike. In the last several weeks, increased leopard sightings and incidents along the route have prompted the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) to implement wide-ranging safety enhancements. These developments aim to protect thousands of devotees who climb the steep path daily, especially during early morning and evening hours when wildlife is more active.
Recent Leopard Attacks and Safety Concerns
Several alarming incidents involving wild animals have occurred on the Alipiri footpath, particularly near the seventh mile marker. Intragroup response has been triggered by two disturbing attacks: a six-year-old girl tragically killed, and another child seriously injured by a leopard. These dangers have spurred intensified security efforts
Frequent Leopard Sightings
Evidence from CCTV and camera traps shows repeated leopard presence near Galigupuram and the seventh mile onward, often during nighttime hours. In one recent sighting, a leopard startled pilgrims walking at around 1¯a.m., leading authorities to warn devotees to proceed in groups and restrict minors
Other Wildlife Encounters
A sloth bear with cubs has also been spotted in the same area, raising concerns about hikers inadvertently entering animal territory during their ascent. These sightings underscore the pressing need for new safety protocols
Security Measures Introduced by TTD
In response to these troubling events, the TTD has rolled out a series of protective initiatives aimed at ensuring pilgrim safety on the footpath.
Permanence of Control Room
A dedicated command and control room has been established at the seventh mile. Staffed round-the-clock, it monitors live CCTV and thermal camera feeds and communicates with field teams to preemptively detect wildlife risks
Enhanced Surveillance Infrastructure
Over 40 live-feed cameras and thermal imaging devices have been installed at risk zones, offering real-time animal tracking. Mobile patrol units comprising forest and TTD personnel operate along the route to ensure rapid response
No Leopard Zone’ Plans
TTD has officially declared the area from the seventh mile to the Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple a ‘No Leopard Zone.’ Measures include bio-fencing, camera traps, net guns, smart sticks with bright lights, and pepper spray for protection
Operational Restrictions and Group Guidelines
The footpath has been closed after 6¯p.m., and daily access is now limited to pilgrim groups of 70-100 with security escorts. Children under 12 are discouraged from walking. Garbage collection and route cleaning have been intensified to avoid attracting wildlife near human activity areas
Collaborative Efforts and Future Safeguards
To develop long-term solutions, TTD has engaged the Forest Department, Revenue, Panchayat Raj, Health, Vigilance, and the Wildlife Institute of India. These agencies are collaborating to refine walkways and introduce elevated pathways though plans are still under review
Field Teams and Rapid Response
Four mobile units have been deployed between Alipiri and the seventh mile. Armed with walkie-talkies and equipped to respond immediately to camera alerts, these teams actively manage wildlife encounters and guide pilgrims safely
Community Awareness and Shopkeeper Cooperation
Local vendors are instructed to avoid selling food items that might lure animals. Pilgrims are alerted about wildlife warnings and advised to travel in numbers and carry protective smart sticks
Timeline of Key Developments
- January-March 2025: Multiple leopard sightings and attacks, including a tragic child fatality
- Late May 2025: TTD designates No Leopard Zone’ from the seventh mile onward, deploying surveillance and protective tools
- June 2025: Permanent control room opens, camera networks expanded, and patrol mobilization begins
- July 2025: Pilgrim group size restrictions take effect. Elevated walkway proposals continue under evaluation
Advice for Alipiri Pilgrims and Visitors
Trek only during designated daytime hours. Stay in registered pilgrim groups, ideally escorted by guides. Carry smart sticks and follow security staff instructions. Avoid walking with children alone. Report any wildlife sightings immediately to the nearest patrol or control room.
These precautions are critical for ensuring the safety and spiritual peace of devotees making the sacred ascent to Tirumala.
The Alipiri footpath remains central to the pilgrim experience in Tirumala, yet wildlife encounters have made it clear that human and animal habitats intersect dangerously. The TTD’s robust measures from surveillance and command centers to patrols, protective equipment, and inter-agency cooperation signal a comprehensive effort to reduce risk without compromising religious practice. As these measures evolve and longer-term infrastructure plans progress, pilgrims can expect a safer, more confident journey to the divine.
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