Pune, 30 August 2025: Forest officials have installed two specially designed cages at Pune airport after repeated leopard sightings since April this year. The cages are built to resemble storm-water pipes, as the leopard often uses drains to move in and out of the premises.
Deputy Conservator of Forests Mahadev Mohite said the leopard seems to be avoiding normal traps, possibly because it remembers being caught earlier. Since it regularly travels through storm-water channels, the department redesigned cages to match that structure, hoping it will eventually walk inside.
The leopard was first spotted on April 28 near the airside of the Indian Air Force (IAF) base adjoining the airport, with multiple sightings reported later. The last confirmed sighting was on August 13.
Teams from the forest department and the RESQ Charitable Trust are keeping a close watch. Their cameras are linked to mobile alerts, and if the leopard is seen near the cages, bait will be placed quickly to activate the trap.
RESQ founder Neha Panchamiya said the animal seems to have changed its route after authorities blocked several of its hiding spots. Grass cutting is being carried out to reduce cover, and gaps in the boundary wall are being reinforced to stop its entry.
The Indian Air Force, which manages a 3,500-acre base adjoining the civilian airport, has assured safety. Officials said the station is secured by a 20-foot wall with barbed wire, regular patrols, and armed guards at the gates.
