A full-grown tiger responsible for a human death and repeatedly spotted near villages in the buffer zone of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve was successfully tranquilised and captured on Thursday evening, concluding a two-month-long operation.
Details of the Incident
The tiger, designated as T-83 and estimated to be between 8 and 10 years old, was involved in the fatal attack on Karan Kisan Shedmake, a 21-year-old cattle herder from Chek Nimbala village. The incident occurred on March 16 when Shedmake had taken a bull for grazing in a nearby field. The tiger attacked the bull, and in an attempt to save the animal, Shedmake reportedly rushed toward the predator shouting. The tiger then turned on him and killed him.
Subsequent Sightings and Response
Following the attack, the tiger was frequently sighted near agricultural fields in Nimbala, Pahami, Peth, and adjoining villages, causing widespread fear among residents. In response to the growing concern, authorities at the reserve initiated steps to capture the animal in the latter half of March.
The Rapid Response Team, led by Dr. Ravikant Khobragade, tracked the tiger with the assistance of local field staff. The team finally cornered the tiger near Pahami village in compartment No. 621 of the Peth-2 forest round. Sharp shooter Ajay Marathe darted the tiger around 6 pm, after which it was caged and shifted to the transit treatment centre in Chandrapur.
The capture brings relief to villagers who had been living in fear of the tiger's presence. Authorities have assured that the tiger will be kept under observation at the treatment centre before further decisions are made regarding its relocation or rehabilitation.
