Fear grips residents after leopard spotted near Durgadevi Tekdi in Pune's Nigdi, forest dept steps in

A CCTV grab of the leopard spotted near Durgadevi Tekdi area. Pic/Special Arrangement

Panic has spread across Pune's Nigdi and nearby localities after a leopard was spotted in the Durgadevi Tekdi area.

CCTV footage confirmed the animal's movement across multiple locations, including the Ammunition Factory zone, Durgadevi Tekdi, and Mhaske Vasti.

The visuals have validated growing concerns among residents who had reported possible leopard movement over the past few days.

Forest dept launches search ops

Following the sightings, the Forest Department has launched a search and tracking operation in the affected region.

Teams are monitoring nearby forest patches and attempting to trace the leopard's movement path.

Officials said surveillance has been increased to ensure the animal is not seen near residential pockets again.

Fear among residents near forest zones

The presence of the leopard has caused fear among residents, particularly in areas close to forested belts in Dehu Road and Ravet.

People have been advised to remain cautious, especially during early morning and late evening hours.

Public urged not to panic

Mangesh Tate told mid-day that the leopard was first sighted on May 5 and later captured in CCTV footage.

"The leopard was sighted on May 5 and captured on CCTV. We have alerted nearby areas. People should not panic as there has been no negative incident reported so far," he said.

Officials have urged residents not to venture alone into isolated areas and to immediately report any further sightings.