Hyderabad: A speeding vehicle hit a leopard on the national highway near Jakranpalli mandal in Nizamabad district on Monday night. The incident occurred on the outskirts of Adi Sikindrapur–Padkal village.
Police said the animal suffered fatal injuries and died on the spot. Jakranpalli Sub-Inspector and his team reached the scene and informed the forest department. Officials will examine the carcass and complete disposal as per wildlife protection rules.
Forest officers said the accident reflects the growing risk to wild animals in areas close to highways. They explained that rapid urban growth and road expansion in Nizamabad have reduced natural habitats. Experts added that leopards often enter villages and fields in search of prey like stray dogs or livestock, which puts them in conflict with humans and vehicles.
Villagers said sightings of wild animals have increased in recent years. Farmers in Jakranpalli reported spotting leopards in their fields during early mornings and late evenings. In some cases, they attacked livestock. The forest department responded by setting traps and increasing patrolling.
Officials suggested steps to prevent such incidents. They recommended signboards warning motorists about animal crossings and creating underpasses or green corridors along highways. They also advised motorists to drive slowly near forest stretches, especially at night when animals move more often.
This incident adds to a series of road accidents involving wildlife in Telangana. Conservationists emphasised the need to protect animal corridors and raise driver awareness to avoid such deaths in the future.
