Kumram Bheem Asifabad, Dec 18: A tiger was filmed crossing railway tracks in broad daylight at Makodi village in Rajura Taluq of Chandrapur district, Maharashtra, about 12 kilometers from Sirpur (T) town in Telangana. The video, recorded by a local resident, quickly went viral on social media platforms in Telangana, drawing widespread attention to the region’s frequent tiger sightings.
Frequent Tiger Sightings in the Region
The railway tracks at Makodi village pass through a section of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR), one of India’s prominent tiger habitats. Tigers often traverse these tracks while migrating to forests in Telangana. Locals explained that this movement peaks during winter as tigers from TATR search for new territories and mating partners in the forests of Kumram Bheem Asifabad district.
While some tigers settle in the region to raise their cubs, others have been involved in attacks on humans, heightening concerns among local communities.
Recent Tiger Attacks in Telangana
The region has witnessed several tiger-related incidents over the years:
- November 2024: A tiger killed 21-year-old farm laborer Morle Lakshmi at Easgaon village in Kagaznagar mandal on November 29. A day later, it attacked Rauthu Suresh at Dubbagudem village in Sirpur (T) mandal, leaving the community in panic.
- January 2023: A tiger mauled two farmers, Chandru and Rajesh, near the Dahegaon forests while they were returning from their fields. Both sustained serious injuries.
- December 2022: A tiger was sighted near the Rebbena forest area, and a local herder reported losing cattle to the predator. The incident prompted forest officials to issue advisories for villagers to avoid forested areas after dark.
These recurring tiger sightings and incidents have become a part of life for residents in the forest fringe villages.
Forest Department’s Measures
In response to these events, forest officials have intensified monitoring and awareness campaigns. Over 50 CCTV cameras have been installed across key areas to track tiger movements and ensure public safety. Villagers are being educated on precautions to minimize human-animal conflict, including avoiding isolated areas and traveling in groups near tiger habitats.
The viral video has reignited discussions about the delicate balance between wildlife conservation and human safety in these regions. Officials emphasized the importance of coexistence and the need for proactive measures to safeguard both tigers and residents.
