Chikhali, a locality near Pune, has been grappling with heightened anxiety as residents report sightings of leopards venturing into civilization from nearby forests. While authorities successfully captured one leopard on December 28, a new video circulating on social media has reignited concerns about the presence of another leopard in the vicinity.
The apprehension among residents is fueled by recent instances of leopard attacks on small children and domestic animals in Pune. The situation escalated to the point where the President of the Chikhali-Moshi Pimpri Chinchwad Housing Society Federation, Sanjeevan Sangale, expressed the community’s distress, urging residents to avoid venturing outside alone and to stay in groups.
Despite the successful capture of one leopard, residents are using various society WhatsApp groups to share information about alleged sightings. Maruti Parit and Shahaji Pawar, residents of Chikhali, emphasized the need for authorities to use drone cameras to inspect the area, especially as the fear may persist when the regular schedule resumes after the holidays.
Chikhali Police Inspector Dnyaneshwar Katkar acknowledged the concerns and mentioned coordination with the forest department. While speculations about the reasons behind leopards venturing into civilization abound, a forest officer in the Junnar Forest Division pointed to ongoing sugarcane cutting near the forests as a factor driving leopards away. Weather conditions and grass cutting have also contributed to these animals seeking food closer to residential areas.
Chikhali Range Forest Officer Santosh Kank assured residents that regular patrols are being conducted, and guidelines have been provided, including avoiding dark areas, moving in groups, and keeping animals in enclosed spaces to prevent leopard encounters.
In case of an emergency encounter with a leopard, authorities emphasize the importance of remaining calm, as leopards are more likely to avoid harm if undisturbed. Authorities continue to closely monitor the situation, and residents are urged to follow safety guidelines to minimize risks associated with leopard encounters.
