A leopard spotted near Pune Airport’s runway has triggered a high alert, with authorities working to ensure safety. The big cat’s presence has raised concerns, prompting a swift response to protect both people and the animal.
Pune | 21 July, 2025: In the early hours of July 17, 2025, Pune International Airport, a bustling hub for travelers, became the unlikely stage for a wildlife drama when a leopard was spotted prowling near its runway. The sightings, first reported in April and recurring recently, have put the airport on high alert, stirring unease among staff, passengers, and nearby residents. This unexpected visitor, navigating the high-security zone shared by the Indian Air Force and civilian operations, has prompted a delicate balance of ensuring human safety while protecting the elusive animal.
The leopard, believed to have wandered in from nearby agricultural fields or forest patches, was seen lounging close to critical areas, including just 500 meters from the runway. Its bold presence, captured on trap cameras and witnessed by airport personnel, has heightened concerns about potential risks to flight operations and ground staff. The big cat’s ability to move through stormwater drains and tunnels within the 3,500-acre Air Force base has made it challenging to track, leaving authorities on edge but determined to resolve the situation safely.
The Pune Forest Department, alongside wildlife rescue NGO RESQ, has launched an intensive operation to locate and capture the leopard. Teams have deployed trap cages, camera traps, and sniffer dogs to monitor its movements, focusing on areas like tunnels where the animal has been active. The Indian Air Force, which manages the runway, has increased patrols, while ground staff and CISF personnel have been instructed to stay vigilant and move in groups. Despite the tension, flight operations have continued uninterrupted, a testament to the coordinated efforts to manage the crisis.
For the people of Pune, the leopard’s presence feels both surreal and unsettling. Airport workers, from baggage handlers to pilots, are navigating their duties with an added layer of caution, while nearby residents in Lohegaon and Wagholi worry about the big cat straying into their neighborhoods. The incident underscores the growing overlap between Pune’s urban expansion and wildlife habitats, as leopards, drawn by food or water, venture closer to human spaces.
The community is rallying behind the efforts, with many expressing admiration for the leopard’s resilience while hoping for its safe relocation to a natural habitat. Authorities are working tirelessly to avoid harm to the animal, reflecting a commitment to coexistence. As the search continues, this unusual encounter serves as a reminder of the need for better wildlife management around urban areas, ensuring safety for both people and the region’s majestic wildlife.
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