Authorities in Mysuru have launched a major operation to track a tiger that was captured on CCTV cameras prowling inside the Mysuru airport campus. The forest department has issued a stern caution to residents and villagers in the surrounding areas, advising them to remain vigilant and avoid stepping out alone during night hours.
Massive Search Operation Underway
In response to the sighting, the forest department has mobilised six dedicated teams of personnel to trace the big cat. They have set up two walkthrough cages at strategic points—one inside the airport premises and another near the TVS factory—to safely capture the animal. To aid in the round-the-clock surveillance, officials are employing thermal drone cameras to monitor the tiger's movements from the air.
Deputy Conservator of Forests, K Paramesh, provided details on the preparations. He confirmed that four elephants have been brought from the Dubare elephant camp in Kodagu district and are currently on standby at a forest facility in Yelwala, on Mysuru's outskirts, ready to be deployed for the rescue mission if needed.
Evidence Points to Airport Breach
The DCF explained that evidence clearly shows the tiger entered the airport compound by jumping over the wall. Bloodstains and tufts of hair were found on the barbed wire of the security fence, indicating the point of entry. The animal's presence was further confirmed by the discovery of pug marks (paw prints) on the airport campus itself.
Officials have made a public appeal, requesting people to inform the forest department immediately if they spot the tiger and to refrain from spreading unverified rumours that could cause unnecessary panic.
Local Residents Express Concerns Over Pace
Despite these measures, a sense of unease persists among local communities. Residents have voiced concern over what they perceive as a lack of urgency in the tracking efforts, even though the tiger was first sighted in the area two days ago. Villagers have alleged that forest staff have not conducted adequate ground combing operations and are relying too heavily on technology like camera traps and drone surveillance.
The situation remains tense as the search for the elusive tiger continues, with authorities balancing technological aids with traditional methods to ensure public safety and the animal's safe capture.
