Pune: Leopard Sighting Near Durga Tekdi Lake In Pimpri–Nigdi Triggers Panic; Area Sealed For Public Safety
Pune: Leopard Sighting Near Durga Tekdi Lake In Pimpri–Nigdi Triggers Panic; Area Sealed For Public Safety
Pune, January 10, 2026: Pimpri–Chinchwad, January 2026: Panic spread in the Nigdi area of Pimpri–Chinchwad after a leopard was reportedly spotted near the lake at Durga Devi Tekdi, raising serious safety concerns among residents. As a precautionary measure, the Durga Tekdi area has been immediately closed to the public, and entry has been restricted to prevent any untoward incidents.
According to eyewitnesses, the leopard is suspected to have hunted a dog or another animal in the vicinity. Local residents have alleged that despite receiving information, the police response to the incident was delayed, adding to public anxiety. The police have since cordoned off the area and imposed a strict ban on public movement around the hillock.
Forest Department teams have been deployed at the site and efforts to track and capture the leopard are underway. However, the animal has not yet been trapped, further heightening concern among locals.
Citizens have demanded urgent intervention from the Forest Department, including the installation of cages, use of drones and night-vision cameras, and an intensified search operation. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm, avoid rumours and cooperate with the administration. It may be noted that leopards have been captured twice earlier in the Pimpri–Chinchwad area, with one animal dying during treatment.
