Leopard sighting in Taloja jail staff colony triggers safety concerns

With no residents in the surrounding government quarters except the superintendent’s bungalow, jail authorities have expressed concern for the safety of the superintendent and family members. They contacted the range forest officer (RFO), Panvel, seeking urgent intervention.

NAVI MUMBAI: A leopard sighting on January 11 in the Taloja Central Jail staff colony has triggered safety concerns. According to prison authorities, the rear portion of the colony is located at the foothills and is surrounded by dense, forest-like vegetation. With not much human movement, the area has reportedly become a corridor for wildlife.

A leopard killed two young girls in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. (Representative Photo)

Jail officials said venomous snakes and wild animals like wild boars, hyenas and leopards have been observed in the area in the past.

“The latest leopard sighting has heightened concerns for the safety of officers and staff, particularly those reporting for night duty or performing security patrols within the campus,” said jail superintendent Pramod Wagh.

With no residents in the surrounding government quarters except the superintendent’s bungalow, jail authorities have expressed concern for the safety of the superintendent and family members. They contacted the range forest officer (RFO), Panvel, seeking urgent intervention.

Forest officials conducted a site inspection and installed trap cameras in the area. “Two camera traps are in place and further action will be taken based on camera footage and animal movement patterns,” said range forest officer Gajanan Panpatte.