Forest Department Launches Full-Scale Operation to Capture 'Problem Tiger' in Bhandara
The forest department has initiated a comprehensive and urgent operation to capture a 'problem tiger' that is suspected to be behind a series of human attacks in the Sakoli taluka of Bhandara district. This decisive action comes in response to a third incident reported on Wednesday, which has escalated concerns and prompted immediate intervention.
Third Attack Intensifies Panic Among Villagers
The latest attack occurred at Amgaon village, where Chhaya Mungmode was critically injured while working on her farm around 10 a.m. She sustained severe injuries to her neck and ear and is currently undergoing treatment at the Sakoli sub-district hospital. This incident has significantly heightened panic and anger among local villagers, as it marks the third such attack in the area within a mere fortnight.
Series of Attacks Prompt Immediate Action
The recurrence of attacks in this region has forced the forest department to take swift measures. On March 10, a man was killed in a tiger attack while collecting mahua flowers. Shortly after, another woman, Chhaya Sonawane from Umarzari, was seriously injured while working in her field and is currently receiving treatment in Nagpur. The pattern of these incidents has raised alarms and necessitated a coordinated response.
Forest Department Confirms Involvement of Same Tigress
Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Sanjay Mendhe confirmed that preliminary assessments indicate the same tigress was involved in the last two attacks. Efforts are ongoing to determine whether this animal was also responsible for the earlier fatality. Mendhe stated that the department has secured all necessary permissions to capture the tiger, and a well-organized operation to tranquillise it is currently in progress.
Coordinated Efforts and Deployment of Teams
To ensure the success of this critical mission, the forest department has deployed three dedicated teams in the affected area. Each team is equipped with a trained shooter specifically tasked with darting the beast. This strategic deployment aims to safely capture the tiger and mitigate further risks to human life.
Villagers Suspect Underlying Issues
Local villagers have expressed concerns that the tiger may be injured or unable to hunt naturally, leading to repeated human encounters. With tensions running high and fear pervasive in the community, authorities are under immense pressure to capture the tigress promptly and prevent any additional attacks.
The situation underscores the ongoing challenges of human-wildlife conflict in forested regions, highlighting the need for balanced conservation efforts and community safety measures.
