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Journalism of Courage
Written by Sanika Deshande
A leopard was caught on CCTV at a Girivan farmhouse in Mulshi on Friday, confirming long-standing speculation among residents after months of sightings, missing pets, and pugmarks pointed to the animal’s presence. CCTV footage from the farmhouse showed the leopard attempting to attack a pet dog but retreated after it was unable to approach it since the animal was confined to a kennel.
According to residents, the leopard has been sighted intermittently over the past few months, with the first reported sighting dating back to May. Until now, only pugmarks and other indirect evidence indicated its movement through the region. The latest CCTV footage has provided the first definitive visual confirmation of the animal’s activity near human habitation. While locals mentioned hearing of leopards occasionally straying into the area before, no major incidents had ever occurred, which is why the recent developments have left many alarmed. “We’ve been hearing reports of leopard sightings almost every week now; it’s starting to become a serious threat,” said public relations officer of the Girivan Welfare Society, Rashmi Dharap, who had one of her dogs fall prey to a previous attack.
Since June, several pet dogs from nearby farmhouses and residential plots have reportedly gone missing, leading many to suspect the leopard’s involvement. Residents then discovered pugmarks near the locations, confirming the animal’s frequent movement through the area and reinforcing fears about its growing presence in the vicinity. With around 450 bungalows spread across Girivan’s wooded landscape, residents say the frequent movement of the animal poses a risk to both people and pets in the area.
Till now, four to five dogs, along with some cattle, have fallen prey, forcing residents as well as locals to remain vigilant. “We are completely shattered,” said one of the residents whose dog was taken by the feline. As a precaution, several homeowners have now put up CCTV cameras and built kennels to ensure their dogs’ protection.
When alerted, the Forest Department dispatched officers to conduct a patrol of the area to assess the situation.
Officials met with residents and local caretakers, advising them to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions.
After another dog disappeared on Diwali, residents arranged security patrols to spread awareness as well as safeguard the locals.
Ravi Durge, a water supplier, came in close contact with the leopard in broad daylight about 15 days ago, when it was sighted hopping over his vehicle bumper and fleeing in the direction of a neighbouring temple.
Secretary of Girivan Welfare Society, Devika Nadig, urged officials to take some action, citing the leopard’s direct threat to children and women working in the fields. “Pets are one thing, but when you speak of cattle, that is someone’s livelihood at risk as well,” she said. Residents have suggested that a cage be put up to capture and relocate the leopard to a safer forested area, away from human settlements. Following these appeals, the Forest Department stated that an officer would soon visit the site to evaluate the situation and recommend further action.
Given that Girivan is a popular weekend vacation destination, residents wish to disseminate the news to ensure public and animal safety.
Mahadev Mohite, Deputy Conservator of Forest, Pune, said that leopard sightings have become extremely common in Maharashtra, where 8 to 10 are reported to them every week. He attributed this to the growing leopard population in Maharashtra. With the survival rate of leopards now being 100%, he mentioned sterilisation drives for them.
“The forest department is taking efforts, such as building an AI model for CCTV cameras to identify and alert when wild animals are captured on camera,” he stated.
When asked about the possibility of relocating the animal, he said, “It’s not as simple as it sounds. In many cases, such relocations can worsen the situation, as leopards tend to become more aggressive or disoriented, particularly if a mother is separated from her cubs.”
The incident has highlighted the growing overlap between human settlements and wildlife habitats on Pune’s outskirts. Residents remain cautious, continuing night patrols and safety measures, hoping the leopard eventually returns to its natural surroundings.
The writer is an Intern
