A tragic tiger attack has claimed the life of a forest watcher at the Bandipur Tiger Reserve (BTR) in Karnataka, underscoring the escalating human-wildlife conflict in the region. This incident marks the fourth fatal tiger attack in the vicinity of BTR and the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve within a span of just two months.
The Fatal Incident at Maralahalla
The attack occurred on Saturday near Maralahalla in the Gundlupet taluk of Chamarajanagar district. The victim, identified as 56-year-old Sanna Haida, was a dedicated forest watcher attached to an Anti-Poaching Camp (APC). He was conducting a routine patrol beat along with four of his colleagues when the tiger launched its assault around noon.
Upon witnessing the attack, the other members of the APC team raised a loud alarm, which prompted the tiger to retreat and flee the scene. Despite their immediate efforts, the attack proved fatal, and Haida succumbed to his injuries on the spot before any medical aid could reach him.
Government Response and Condolences
Karnataka's Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment, Eshwar Khandre, expressed deep condolences over the tragic loss. The minister assured that the state government stands in solidarity with the bereaved family during this difficult time. He also confirmed that financial assistance would be provided to Haida's family as per the prevailing government rules.
Rising Conflict and Capture Operations
This latest fatality is part of a worrying trend in the southern part of Karnataka. The forest department has been actively responding to the increasing incidents of tigers straying near human settlements, attacking livestock, or posing a direct threat to residents.
In a related development, the Forest Department initiated a major operation on Tuesday to capture five tigers spotted near a quarry close to Chamarajanagar. This operation is currently ongoing and involves significant resources, including the deployment of five department elephants to aid in the tracking and capture process.
Over the past several months, the department has successfully captured a number of tigers identified as potential threats. These sustained efforts highlight the critical challenge of managing tiger populations in reserves that are increasingly bordered by human activity, leading to dangerous encounters.
