The escalating human-leopard conflict in Pune's rural belt has reached a critical juncture, with Shirur Member of Parliament Dr. Amol Kolhe demanding drastic measures following 56 fatal attacks by the big cats.
Mounting Pressure for Immediate Action
During a high-level meeting with forest department officials, Dr. Kolhe presented a stark ultimatum: implement shoot-at-sight orders for identified man-eating leopards or face intensified public protests. The MP's强硬 stance comes after years of growing frustration among villagers in Junnar and Ambegaon talukas.
A Region Living in Fear
Local communities have been grappling with increasingly bold leopard behavior, resulting in tragic consequences:
- 56 confirmed human fatalities attributed to leopard attacks
- Regular sightings of the predators near residential areas
- Widespread fear preventing villagers from routine activities
- Agricultural work and movement after dusk becoming life-threatening
Forest Department's Response
While forest officials acknowledged the severity of the situation, they emphasized the challenges in identifying specific "man-eaters" among the leopard population. The department has been employing various mitigation strategies, including:
- Setting up cage traps in affected areas
- Increasing patrols and monitoring efforts
- Creating awareness about safety measures
- Relocating identified problem animals when possible
The Conservation Dilemma
The situation presents a complex conservation challenge, balancing human safety with wildlife protection. As leopard habitats increasingly overlap with human settlements, finding sustainable solutions becomes more urgent. The forest department faces criticism from both sides - villagers demanding protection and conservationists advocating for non-lethal methods.
The standoff continues as authorities race against time to prevent further tragedies while navigating the delicate balance between human welfare and wildlife conservation.
