A video capturing a hyena roaming freely in Charholi has circulated widely on social media, stirring alarm among residents after it was seen preying on a stray dog. The unsettling footage has prompted local activists to notify the forest department and issue advisories urging caution, particularly during nighttime outings.
The incident occurred along a road leading to a crematorium in Charholi, where the hyena was observed carrying a stray dog in its mouth, hinting at potential predatory behavior. While such sightings are rare, this occurrence underscores the need for heightened vigilance and awareness in the community.
This sighting is not an isolated event, as similar encounters with hyenas have been reported in Pune and its environs in recent months. In January 2024, multiple sightings were documented near the Bombay Sappers Hill towards the Dighi-Dhanori side, indicating a presence of these wild animals in urban areas.
Another incident took place in January 2024 at Pride World City on the Dhanori-Lohegaon Road, where residents were startled by the sight of a hyena crossing the road and walkway from Pride World City to DY Patil College. Despite efforts to report the sighting to the forest department, the hyena disappeared shortly thereafter, leaving residents puzzled.
The proximity of residential areas and college campuses to these sighting locations adds to the concerns of locals, heightening the urgency for authorities to address the situation promptly.
As residents remain on edge following these encounters, it is crucial for authorities to implement measures to ensure the safety of both humans and wildlife in urban habitats.
