Navi Mumbai: Leopard Sighting Triggers Fear in Kharghar Hills; Forest Dept Increases Patrolling
Navi Mumbai: Leopard Sighting Triggers Fear in Kharghar Hills; Forest Dept Increases Patrolling
Patrolling has been intensified in the Kharghar hills after Adivasi villagers from Chafewadi reported spotting a leopard. The sighting has created panic among residents of Chafewadi and nearby Phanaswadi, who have urged the Forest Department to take strong steps to trap and relocate the animal.
Villagers Claim Leopard Seen Again
Locals said that they had also seen a leopard about four months ago moving from Chafewadi towards Phanaswadi. At that time, forest officials installed CCTV cameras and checked the area for pugmarks, but no proof of the animal’s presence was found.
However, villagers reported another sighting on Tuesday evening near their settlement, increasing fear in the tribal hamlets.
Forest Officials Begin Fresh Checks
Forest officers had earlier conducted patrolling on the hill, though they could not find the leopard. After the latest report, they have promised fresh inspections and stricter precautions.
#WATCH | Navi Mumbai, Kharghar: After A Viral Video Of Leopard Claiming To Be Sighted At Kharghar Hills, Forest Officials Have Installed Cameras And Increased Patrolling@Raina_Assainar #leopard #Kharghar #NaviMumbai pic.twitter.com/r0tiETF2U7
— Free Press Journal (@fpjindia) November 20, 2025
“Forest staff will conduct a detailed inspection and take necessary steps,” said Gajanan Panpatte, Range Forest Officer, Panvel Forest Division. He added that more cameras have been installed and patrolling has been strengthened, though no evidence has been found yet.
Viral Video Not from Kharghar
Meanwhile, a video circulating online claiming to show the Kharghar leopard has been dismissed by the Forest Department. RFO Panpatte clarified that the viral clip is not from Kharghar hill.
