Pune: The growing human-wildlife conflict in Shirur tehsil is back in focus after the death of Bhagyashree Ware (5) in a leopard attack. The latest fatality is the fifth such death reported from Pimpalsuti and nearby villages in the last two years.Forest officials said Pimpalsuti, Mandavgan Farata and neighbouring villages have emerged as recurring conflict hotspots because of extensive sugar cane cultivation, scattered farmhouses and the presence of perennial water sources that provide ideal cover and habitat for leopards.“Leopard attacks and sightings are common in this group of villages and children have been the victims. Also, we are trying to understand the pattern behind these attacks,” assistant conservator of forest Smita Rajhans told TOI.The forest department said all previous fatal attacks occurred near isolated houses located within or close to agricultural fields. Thick sugarcane plantations provide dense cover, allowing leopards to move undetected before venturing close to human settlements.Rajhans said the department has repeatedly advised villagers to exercise extreme caution, particularly for children below the age of 10 years. “Residents should not leave children alone in open areas surrounded by sugar cane fields. Constant supervision is essential for their safety,” she said.The forest department has intensified its search operation following Wednesday’s attack. It has deployed drone teams to scan the area. Tranquiliser teams have also been stationed at vulnerable locations, although officials said no there was no trace of the leopard till Friday.The latest attack has triggered widespread anger among villagers, who accused the forest department of failing to implement effective long-term measures despite repeated fatalities.Villagers also blamed evening power cuts for worsening the situation. “Even after repeated deaths, how can MSEDCL impose load-shedding in our villages? Leopard sightings are common and darkness only increases the risk of another attack,” said villager Amit Falke.Fear has become a part of daily life, with many avoiding farm work during dawn and dusk, when leopard movement is considered most frequent. Villager Rambhau Kale said, “We cannot work freely in our farms, particularly during the evening. The forest department must strengthen night patrolling and take concrete measures to protect villagers.”On Friday, forest officials handed over a compensation cheque of Rs10 lakh to Bhagyashree’s parents.Meanwhile, villagers said only sustained mitigation measures, improved surveillance and uninterrupted electricity supply would help restore confidence in villagers living under the shadow of recurring leopard attacks.
