Leopard attack claims woman’s life in Pune’s Junnar tehsil; Seventh death since March
Leopard attack claims woman’s life in Pune’s Junnar tehsil; Seventh death since March
A 40-year-old woman was killed in a leopard attack while working in a soybean field in Pune’s Junnar tehsil. The incident occurred at 6 am in Pimpri-Pendhar village, where the victim identified a Sujata Dhere was mistaken for prey by a leopard hiding in nearby sugarcane farms. The big cat dragged her nearly 100 feet, causing severe injuries that led to her death.
Forest department officials confirmed the incident and launched a massive search operation to track down the leopard. Over 40 cages, 50 camera traps, and thermal drones are being used in the effort. The forest division is also working closely with residents to raise awareness and prevent further tragedies.
This attack marks the seventh fatal leopard encounter in the Junnar forest division since March. Rising leopard attacks in the region have sparked widespread concern. Officials are advising villagers to strictly follow safety guidelines, especially in areas prone to leopard activity.
Police and forest officials reached the scene after the attack and sent Dhere’s body for a post-mortem examination. The investigation is ongoing as efforts to locate the leopard continue.
Junnar Forest Division officials have urged residents to stay vigilant and avoid working in isolated fields during early morning or late evening hours when leopards are most active.
The community is also being educated on how to safely coexist with wildlife, as the region’s growing leopard population poses an increasing threat to human life.
Authorities are determined to capture the leopard to prevent further incidents. The search operation remains in full swing across the affected area.
