Locals reported that a leopard was sighted near Sinhagad Fort in Pune. The forest area around the fort is home to several species of animals. In recent times, wildlife has encroached on city limits, sparking panic and fear among residents. A growing presence of leopards around the fort has created a sense of concern among nearby villagers, even though no attacks on humans have been reported so far. The locals, particularly from villages like Bhorwadi and Kalyan, are demanding swift and preventive action from the Forest Department.
Residents say that leopards have been sighted frequently near cowsheds and temples, with several incidents raising alarm. Shrikrushna Bopte from Ambed village said, “We set up a camp near our village after we noticed increased wild animal activity. In ten days, we lost three cows. Later, we captured a wild boar on camera near the roadside. Villagers suspect at least two leopards are active in the area.”
According to the locals, they witnessed leopards from a distance while walking near the riverbank. Similar encounters were reported by young men who were staying overnight at the Karanjai Mata temple. They even recorded a leopard on video during the night.
Datta Jorkar, a local panchayat member, said, “The number of leopards around Sinhagad has increased. Tourists frequently visit this fort due to its historical significance. The Forest Department must take concrete steps to ensure the safety of both villagers and tourists. Awareness boards should also be installed to educate people on safety measures."
Manoj Barbole, the Range Forest Officer, urged citizens to avoid going out after dark and emphasised the importance of reporting sightings. “Anyone noticing a leopard should immediately contact the wildlife helpline number - 1926. Citizens must avoid nighttime movement in forested zones and allow forest officials to track animal movement using installed surveillance,” he said.
