Chandrapur: Following the tragic deaths of four women collecting tendu leaves in a tiger attack within the Sindewahi forest range of Chandrapur district, the forest department commenced procedures on Saturday to capture the feline responsible. Officials are currently working to determine whether the attacks were perpetrated by a male tiger or a tigress accompanied by sub-adult cubs present in the vicinity.
Forest Department Initiates Capture Process
Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) of Chandrapur, RM Ramanujam, stated that a proposal has been submitted to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) seeking authorization for the capture operation, in adherence to the Standard Operating Procedure (SoP). He confirmed that the Rapid Response Team (RRT) from Tadoba, led by veterinary expert Dr Ravikant Khobragade, has arrived in Sindewahi to undertake preparatory tasks, including identifying suitable locations for baiting and constructing machans (elevated platforms).
Surveillance and Identification Measures
Forest officials have deployed three live cameras and approximately 30 camera traps in the area to identify the animal involved in the killings. Ramanujam explained, "There is an independent male tiger as well as a tigress with sub-adult cubs in the region. Once the problem tiger is identified, the capture operation will formally commence."
Previous Warnings and Evacuations
The CCF emphasized that the attack site had already been designated as a sensitive zone due to frequent tiger movement, and villagers had been repeatedly cautioned against venturing deep into forested areas. According to officials, a forest patrol team had earlier evacuated a group of women from the same location on May 14.
Compensation Disbursement
The process to disburse Rs25 lakh in compensation to the family of each victim has been initiated. An immediate relief of Rs10 lakh will be provided on Sunday, with the remaining amount released upon completion of formalities. Previously, on Friday, each family received ex-gratia aid of Rs25,000.
