Pune:
The incidents were reported by former Panchayat Samiti member Nitin Wagh and Ghera Sinhagad forest protection committee member Dattatray Jorkar. The encounters, reported within an hour, have raised concerns among residents and commuters using the Khanapur-Ranjane-Pabe road, especially the stretch that passes through a forested area. In the third incident, Dhondiba Thopte of Thoptewadi was travelling from Khanapur towards Thoptewadi with his daughter Sonali and her friend when a leopard reportedly lunged at their two-wheeler, its paw striking Sonali and leaving her injured. She was initially taken to the primary health centre in Khanapur and later shifted to Sassoon General Hospital in Pune for further treatment. As news of the occurrences spread, Bhamburda forest range officials proceeded to investigate. The forest department’s inquiry is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
A senior forest department officer on condition of anonymity said that a detailed inquiry is needed to establish the exact sequence of events.
