Big danger averted by forest department's vigilance, tiger safely captured in Keravahara

Raipur, Chhattisgarh – A tiger that had been terrorising the area was safely captured by the forest department on the morning of August 1, 2026 in the village of Keravahara, Gariyaband district. The tiger had been entering residential areas for more than a month, creating an atmosphere of fear among villagers. The Chhattisgarh forest department team acted swiftly, set up a cage and secured the animal without any injury. Following the instructions of Forest Minister Kedarnath Kshyap, the Gariyaband forest division achieved a major success in the Keravahara (Joha Gram Panchayat) area. Observing continuous tiger activity in the region, a cage trap was set and the tiger was safely captured on Friday. The department’s vigilance and timely action prevented a potential human‑wildlife conflict. Special monitoring was being carried out on the tiger’s activities. Forest Division Officer Sasiganandan K. reported that the tiger had previously attacked livestock in the area and there were reports of its presence near school premises and populated areas. Consequently, the forest department initiated special surveillance and implemented necessary security measures. The cage trap and rescue team strategy proved successful. Under the guidance of Forest Division Officer Sasiganandan K., Tiger Reserve Udanti‑Sitanadi Deputy Director Varun Jain and wildlife medical officer Dr. Rakesh Verma, cage traps were installed in Joha and Keravahara villages. A trained leopard rescue team equipped with necessary gear was deployed to handle any emergency. Permissions and guidelines were obtained from the Chief Wildlife Conservator and Deputy Wildlife Warden of Chhattisgarh for this operation. After the safe rescue, the tiger was placed in a cage and continuous health monitoring was initiated. Upon receiving the information, the department team arrived on site, ensured the tiger’s safety and began monitoring its health and behavior. Crowd control measures were also implemented to prevent gatherings at the site. Further action will be taken based on expert reports. A three‑member veterinary team is conducting health tests on the captured tiger, assessing its physical condition, any injuries or diseases, and suitability for release into its natural habitat. Subsequent actions will follow the experts’ recommendations. The forest department urges the public to avoid rumors and to immediately inform the nearest forest office of any tiger‑related information. The department emphasizes that the safety of human lives and wildlife is its top priority and all necessary steps are being taken in accordance with regulations.