Leopard Returns to Pune Airport Premises
The Pune International Airport has reported its second major leopard sighting this year, prompting urgent action from forest authorities. On November 19, airport officials spotted the elusive big cat twice within the airport perimeter, raising serious safety concerns for both civilian and military operations.
Detailed Timeline of the Sighting
According to Forest Department officials, the leopard was first observed at 5:30 AM behind Bay Number 9 and later at 7:40 PM near Taxi Link K4 inside the airport boundary. This incident marks the second significant leopard presence at the airport in 2025, following an earlier sighting on April 28 that triggered an extensive search operation.
The Forest Department had already been monitoring leopard movement in the Lohegaon village jurisdiction for approximately 20 days prior to the recent sightings. Their surveillance efforts included strategic placement of monitoring equipment and capture mechanisms throughout the area.
Enhanced Security Measures Deployed
In response to the repeated leopard appearances, the Forest Department has intensified its tracking operations. Authorities have deployed two trap cages, seven camera traps, and a specialized dog squad to locate and capture the animal. The positions of these surveillance tools were recalibrated following the November 19 sightings based on new movement patterns observed.
Forest officials have issued specific recommendations to both the Airport Authority and the Indian Air Force, emphasizing that leopards can jump up to 15 feet and require corresponding perimeter security measures.
Critical Safety Recommendations
The Forest Department has outlined several crucial preventive measures that need immediate implementation:
- Enhanced perimeter fencing reaching 15 feet height throughout the airport area
- Improved sanitation practices to eliminate food waste and garbage that attract stray animals
- Control of stray animals like dogs and pigs that serve as leopard prey
- Removal of overhanging trees near boundaries that provide entry points
- Installation of protective grills on water outlets to block potential access routes
A Forest Department officer emphasized that while many measures have been partially implemented, consistent maintenance and monitoring are essential for long-term effectiveness.
Unique Operational Challenges
The security situation is complicated by Pune International Airport's unique operational structure. The facility operates as a civil enclave within the Indian Air Force's Lohegaon Air Base, sharing a single runway for both military and civilian aircraft. This requires coordinated safety protocols between the Airports Authority of India and the IAF, with designated time slots and segregated operational spaces.
Following the April leopard sighting, forest officials had previously met with IAF authorities to discuss precautionary measures across both operational and residential areas. The recent incident has reinforced the need for sustained vigilance and protocol adherence.
The Forest Department continues its search operations, having recorded multiple camera trap sightings though no successful capture has been achieved to date. Airport and military authorities remain on high alert as they work to implement the recommended safety enhancements.
