Kharghar Hills, a popular destination for families, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts near Navi Mumbai, has become the centre of concern after a leopard was spotted in the area. The animal was caught on CCTV footage on the night of 5 January, prompting immediate action from authorities.
The footage, which was on CCTVs installed by Cidco on the road leading to Fanaswadi, shows the adult leopard emerging from dense vegetation and walking along the hillside path. This sighting marks the first confirmed appearance of a leopard in this particular stretch, and it has raised alarms about the safety of the area.
Following the sighting, local authorities have quickly installed warning banners along the hill stretch, urging both residents and visitors to exercise caution. The location of the sighting initially caused confusion, with some suggesting it had occurred in Kalamboli. However, after a thorough investigation over two days, officials confirmed that the leopard was indeed seen in Kharghar Hills, which stretches from Parsik Hill towards the outskirts of Thane district.
There have also been unconfirmed reports of leopard cubs in the area, further raising concerns among locals. Environmentalists point to possible habitat degradation and deforestation as factors pushing wildlife, including leopards, into increasingly urbanised spaces.
Although no pugmarks were found, forest officers corroborated the sighting with testimonies from security guards stationed near the area. Despite this, the leopard’s presence has prompted calls for heightened vigilance.
Forest officials are advising people to avoid the area, particularly solo trekkers and families with children. While it’s not yet clear whether the leopard sighting is an isolated incident or a sign of an ongoing issue, the potential danger posed by wildlife in the region cannot be underestimated.
As authorities continue to investigate the situation, residents and visitors are urged to stay informed and be cautious when visiting the Kharghar Hills, particularly in areas where wildlife is known to roam. With growing concerns about the encroachment of wild animals into populated areas, this serves as a timely reminder to always prioritise safety and heed official warnings.
