Medak, India - January 30, 2025 In a tragic incident, a leopard was severely injured after being struck by an unidentified vehicle on National Highway 44, raising concerns about the safety of wildlife in the area. The incident occurred near Valluru village in the Narsingi sub district of Medak district, Telangana, southern India, on the evening of January 30. Visuals show the leopard lying on the road while several passengers are seen standing outside their vehicles. The leopard is later observed trying to attack an individual passing by on a bike, as people capture the scene and inform forest officials. According to reports, eyewitnesses stated that the leopard was attempting to cross the road when it was struck by a speeding vehicle. Following the impact, the animal was seen writhing in pain, unable to move. Commuters immediately alerted local authorities, who rushed to the scene to assess the situation. Forest department officials were soon informed, and efforts are underway to provide medical attention to the injured leopard. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the accident and considering measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Speaking to Newslions, Baji R, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), stated that the leopard was trying to cross the highway to reach the forest area. However, it was struck by an unidentified vehicle. Despite being rushed to a veterinary hospital, the leopard died about 30 minutes later. The leopard, likely between six and seven years old, appeared to be in good health before the accident, according to Medak district forest officer M. Joji. He mentioned that the animal was a regular visitor to a check dam in the nursery, where it had been seen at least twice before drinking water. Several other wild animals also frequent the check dam to drink. The leopard had managed to cross one side of the national highway and was hit by a speeding vehicle after crossing the divider. There is a nearby reserve forest area with undulating terrain, which serves as an ideal leopard habitat, the official added. Since several wild animals cross this stretch of NH 44, there is a need for a wildlife underpass or overpass to allow safe passage for animals from one side of the road to the other.