Authorities confirmed a leopard sighting in Keshavnagar early on Thursday, after the animal was captured on CCTV footage around 4 a.m. inside the premises of Alcon Silverleaf Society. The Pune Forest Department immediately initiated a large-scale search and surveillance operation, deploying teams to track the leopard's movements and ensure resident safety. Fresh pugmarks were also reported in nearby societies, indicating the big cat had traversed multiple residential areas.

Forest officials installed trap cameras along a nearby drain lined with dense vegetation, a likely hiding spot for the animal. A thermal drone was deployed to scan low-visibility zones and green patches for any signs of the leopard. Range Forest Officer Vishal Chavan confirmed the sighting via society CCTV and stated that checks were underway across adjoining complexes to determine if the animal had exited the urban area. Night patrolling was intensified in Keshavnagar, Mundhwa, and surrounding localities, with special monitoring teams formed to prevent potential conflicts.

This incident is part of a rising trend of leopard intrusions in Pune's urban fringes, linked to the city's expansion into wildlife corridors along rivers and hills. Areas like Aundh, Bavdhan, Pashan, and even the airport vicinity have reported similar sightings recently, driven by habitat loss and availability of prey such as stray dogs. Wildlife experts note that leopards often venture into human settlements in search of food but typically avoid confrontation unless provoked.

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Residents have been urged to stay indoors after dusk, avoid isolated spots near drains or greenery, and report sightings promptly to forest helplines. No human or pet injuries were reported in this case, and officials emphasised a cautious approach, with capture considered only if the leopard poses an immediate threat.

The operation continues with heightened vigilance, highlighting ongoing challenges in managing human-wildlife coexistence in rapidly urbanising Pune. Local associations are cooperating by circulating safety advisories, while the forest department assures the public of proactive measures to resolve the situation peacefully.

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