Tiger Attack in Arunachal Pradesh Prompts Enhanced Security Measures
In response to a tragic tiger attack that claimed the life of a police head constable, security forces have significantly ramped up night patrolling and deployed specialized teams in the Mayodia area of Arunachal Pradesh's Lower Dibang Valley. The incident, which occurred on February 2, involved Chikseng Manpang, a 33-year-old radio operator from the Roing police station, who was fatally mauled while riding his motorcycle from Anini to Roing. His body was recovered the following day after an extensive search operation.
Wildlife Authorities Mobilize Expert Veterinary Support
Mito Rumi, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, announced on Friday that a veterinary team from Itanagar has been stationed in the area. This team is equipped with darting guns, tranquilizing drugs, and other specialized equipment to handle potential wildlife encounters. "We have also sought assistance from officers of Namdapha, Pakke, and Kamlang tiger reserves to bolster our operations," Rumi stated, emphasizing the collaborative effort to address the situation.
Despite these measures, the big cats responsible for the attack have remained unsighted since the incident, adding to the urgency of the response. Authorities are maintaining a high alert to prevent further tragedies.
Complexities Arise with Discovery of Tigress Carcass
The situation took a more complicated turn when the carcass of an adult female tiger with a gunshot wound was discovered on February 5 in the same vicinity. "It is not certain whether this was the same tiger that killed the constable. An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances of its death," the DFO explained, raising concerns about possible retaliatory killing. A dedicated team has been formed to oversee the necropsy and disposal of the tigress's carcass in strict accordance with National Tiger Conservation Authority guidelines.
The panel, chaired by DFO Rumi, includes:
- Dr. Tadap Sorang, veterinary officer from Itanagar Biological Park
- Dr. Panjit Basumatary, senior veterinary surgeon from WTI CRBC
- Dr. Subi Migri, senior veterinary officer from Roing
- Dr. Techi Ana, veterinary officer from Roing
- Ipra Mekola, honorary wildlife warden
Travel Advisories and Safety Precautions Issued
In light of the ongoing threat, authorities have issued strong advisories urging commuters to exercise extreme caution while traveling along the Mayodia route, particularly during evening and night hours. Restrictions on night travel, especially for two-wheelers, remain in force along the high-risk stretch near Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary. These measures aim to minimize the risk of further encounters and ensure public safety as investigations continue.
