CCTV footage revealed on Thursday shows the leopard, previously sighted in the Ulka Nagari area of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, has moved approximately 7 kilometres away, near Prozone Mall in the Cidco area. This new information has prompted the forest department teams stationed in Ulka Nagari to shift their search operations to Cidco.
The forest department teams scanned the vicinity of Prozone Mall throughout the day, but the elusive leopard remained undetected. “Being a nocturnal animal, the leopard likely moved from Ulka Nagari to Cidco post-midnight. The footage captured from the mall has a timestamp of 3:49 AM,” stated a forest officer. The new footage shows the female leopard near one of the mall’s entrances. Officials from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar expressed that the latest location places the leopard within an industrial area with many defunct units surrounded by dense vegetation. This area is close to the leopard’s natural habitat, suggesting that the big cat may eventually move out of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar overnight. Amid rising speculations and rumours of multiple leopards roaming within city limits, authorities have clarified that these are unfounded. “Some old videos are circulating on social media, misleading people. Citizens should not believe such hearsay,” cautioned a forest officer.
The forest department’s teams are continuing their efforts to locate and safely capture the leopard, ensuring the safety of both the animal and the residents. The presence of the leopard in urban areas underscores the ongoing human-wildlife conflict and the need for effective strategies to manage such situations. In addition to the search efforts, the forest department is engaging with local communities to provide accurate information and alleviate any fears. Public cooperation is being sought to report any sightings and to avoid actions that could provoke or endanger the leopard. This incident highlights the challenges of wildlife conservation in rapidly urbanising areas. The forest department’s response demonstrates the importance of timely and coordinated efforts in addressing such issues, balancing the safety of residents with the conservation of wildlife.
