Three personnel from the Kerala Forest Department, who went missing while conducting the crucial National Tiger Census in the dense Bonacaud forest area, have been found safe and sound. The team was successfully tracked down to the Iruthode area of Erattumukku in Bonacaud by Monday evening, ending a tense period of uncertainty.
How the Team Lost Their Way
The incident began on Monday morning when the three-member team, comprising a beat forest officer, a forester, and a watcher, entered the forest for their census duties. According to an official, the group lost communication with their base camp by evening, raising immediate concerns. It is understood that one of the team members took an incorrect path, leading them deeper into an area with no cellular or wireless signal.
The team was equipped with two mobile connections from different service providers and a wireless set, as per standard protocol for such remote fieldwork. However, officials noted that it is common for signals to drop in the heart of the forest, making consistent communication a challenge.
The Search and Safe Recovery
After losing contact, a search operation was initiated to locate the missing personnel. The situation was resolved when the team, having moved into the Palode forest range, finally regained mobile signal. They were able to make a call to their colleagues around 10:30 PM on Monday, confirming their safety and location. Following this confirmation, the active search was called off, and arrangements were made to ensure their safe return.
Ongoing National Tiger Census Efforts
This incident occurred against the backdrop of the extensive National Tiger Census currently underway across India's forest ranges. The census, conducted in phases, involves meticulous data collection across vast and often difficult terrain. The first phase alone requires covering transects and designated paths in 673 forest blocks. The entire massive exercise is scheduled for completion by April of next year.
The safe recovery of the staff underscores the inherent risks faced by forest department personnel who work in remote and challenging environments to protect and monitor India's wildlife. The department continues its vital census work, which is critical for tiger conservation and habitat management policies.
