Now Reading: Operation to capture tiger in Arankal intensified
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Operation to capture tiger in Arankal intensified
The forest department has intensified efforts to capture a tiger roaming the Arankal region of Peermade in Idukki for over a month. The Times of India reports that a specially trained eight-member…
The Story in Brief
The forest department has intensified efforts to capture a tiger roaming the Arankal region of Peermade in Idukki for over a month. The Times of India reports that a specially trained eight-member team led by Erumeli range officer K V Ratheesh has been deployed, along with veterinary experts from Munnar and Konni to tranquilise and safely capture the animal. The tiger is believed to be the same one earlier captured from Munnar and released into the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
To strengthen surveillance, the department has erected two elevated watchtowers and installed infrared cameras, camera traps, and a VHF radio tracking system. Despite intermittent signs of the tiger's presence, officials have been unable to locate it. The animal, accustomed to human settlements, is now concealed deep inside the forest, making the search challenging. A control room has been opened at Arankal, and residents are advised to remain vigilant.
The Indian Opinion
The forest department's efforts to recapture a tiger that has become habituated to human presence are meticulous, but the narrative often swings between alarmism and sympathy for the animal. The fact that this tiger was previously captured and released from Munnar raises legitimate doubts about the efficacy of relocation as a solution. People living near the forest deserve safety, yet the tiger is not a villain. The real test is whether the deployment of infrared cameras, watchtowers, and a trained team can safely conclude this operation without harm to either side.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
