Leopard sightings near RCI Hyderabad: Defence school issues safety advisory

Hyderabad: Defence Laboratories School, Vignyan Kancha, has issued an urgent safety advisory to parents after two leopards were reportedly sighted near the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) campus in Balapur on July 11, 2025.

In a notice issued on July 11, the school advised parents not to allow children to go outside alone under any circumstances. “As per instructions from the Management Committee, it has been brought to your attention that two leopards have been sighted roaming near the RCI premises. All parents are requested to take utmost care and ensure children remain indoors until further notice,” the advisory stated. The sighting has caused concern among local residents and parents, especially given a similar incident earlier this year.

On April 18, 2025, a male leopard, estimated to be five to six years old, was captured after roaming the ICRISAT campus in Patancheru, Sangareddy District, for nearly a week. The animal was trapped on the night of April 17 after forest officials set up surveillance with 30 to 40 cameras and two cages baited with goats.

The leopard was taken to Nehru Zoological Park in Hyderabad for a medical examination. It was found to be in good health and later released into the Amrabad Tiger Reserve in Nagarkurnool district.

Vasantha, IFS, Curator of Nehru Zoological Park, confirmed that the leopard was quarantined and monitored by a veterinary team led by Dr. M.A. Hakeem, Deputy Director (Veterinary). Preliminary reports confirmed the animal was fit for release.

The Telangana Forest Department has not yet issued an official statement regarding the latest sightings near RCI. Parents and residents are urged to remain cautious until further updates.