'Royal Bengal Tiger' sighting triggers panic in Odisha’s Kamakhyanagar; locals urge swift capture

Panic has gripped locals in Kamakhyanagar in Odisha's Dhenkanal following sightings of a Royal Bengal Tiger (RBT) that has been hunting cows. Fear has gripped both the western and eastern ranges of the area after the carcass of a bull was recovered in the forest of Kantaripat village, believed to have been killed by a tiger.

As per reports, the Forest Department officials are alerting villagers about the tiger using loudspeakers. Over the past four days, the RBT has been moving across the ranges, with footprints spotted at various locations in the forest. Authorities are keeping a close watch on its movements, but the tiger has not yet been captured, reportedly. Earlier reports indicate that the tiger had already killed two cows.

Locals Share Frightening Encounters

A local villager recounted, “I went to the forest early morning, around 6 am, to collect mushrooms. That is when I spotted the Royal Bengal Tiger with the carcass of a bull. Luckily, I went away and the tiger did not attack me.”

Another resident added, “We request the Forest Department to capture the tiger immediately. The tiger has moved from the jungle towards human settlement areas. This is posing a serious threat to the villagers.”

Authorities Keep Vigil As Tensions Rise

With the tiger continuing to roam near human habitation, local authorities and forest officials remain on high alert. Villagers have been urged to stay cautious, avoid venturing into the forest alone, and immediately report any sightings to the Forest Department. The situation underscores the ongoing challenge of human-wildlife conflict in the region.