Chandrapur: In a significant victory for the Forest Department and the villagers of Chandrapur, Maharashtra, a nine-year-old tiger responsible for the deaths of six people over the past two months has been successfully captured. This operation marks the end of a reign of terror that had gripped the local communities.
The formidable predator, which had claimed four lives in the Central Chanda division and two in the Chandrapur division, was finally outwitted on Monday night in the dense forests of Karwa-Ballarpur. The capture was announced by a senior official on Tuesday, bringing a collective sigh of relief to the terror-stricken villagers.
Shweta Boddu, Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) for the Central Chanda division, detailed the challenging operation that spanned two months. The tiger’s heightened alertness made it a formidable challenge to capture. However, the Forest Department’s unwavering determination and patience paid off when they managed to confine the tiger to a cage.
The timing of the capture, just before the tendu leaf collection season, is particularly significant. It ensures the safety of both the forest department personnel and the local villagers, who can now carry out their livelihood activities without fear.
As for the future of the captured tiger, it is likely to be relocated to Nagpur Zoo, following the standard protocol for managing such dangerous animals. This ensures that the tiger will not pose a further threat to human life, while also receiving proper care and management.
This successful operation is a testament to the dedication of the Forest Department and the resilience of the local communities in the face of wildlife conflict. It also highlights the ongoing challenges of conservation and the need for effective strategies to manage human-animal interactions.
