A recent survey conducted by a 15-member team comprising staff from the Thane Forest Department, wildlife wardens, and volunteers has revealed light leopard footprints on an open plot of land on Kharghar Hill. In response to this discovery, trap cameras have been installed at two key locations on the hill to monitor the animal's movements.

The survey was prompted by a sighting of the leopard on CCTV on January 5, 2025, on the road leading to Fanaswadi on Kharghar Hill. A search operation was launched late that night, which continued for three days. During the search, light footprints were found on an open plot located between Fanaswadi and Owe villages. The area consists of three large open plots with dry grass of varying sizes.

Interestingly, additional leopard footprints were found approximately 10 kilometers away from the site of the initial CCTV sighting, further confirming the presence of the animal in the area. A dedicated team of forest department staff and volunteers is actively tracking these footprints as part of their efforts to locate and monitor the leopard.

In response to safety concerns, an ambulance has also been made available to assist the search team in case of an emergency during the operation.

According to Gajanan Pandharpatte, Range Forest Officer for Panvel, the team has installed the trap cameras at two locations and will continue its survey to track the leopard's movements and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

The installation of trap cameras is part of the Forest Department's ongoing efforts to monitor the presence of wildlife in urban areas and ensure that both the animals and local residents remain safe. The situation is being closely watched, and further updates will be provided as the search continues.