Tiger pugmarks spotted near laikera’s banrai reserve forest; forest officials deploy teams and cameras to track movement, locals alerted
Jharsuguda: Panic spread in Laikera Block on Monday morning after pugmarks of a tiger were spotted near Banrai Reserve Forest, triggering an alert among locals and forest officials. The big cat, which is believed to have strayed in from Sundargarh, is currently suspected to be inside the Banrai forest range.
Confirming the development, Jharsuguda Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Manu Ashok Bhat said, “Three to four days ago, we learnt that a tiger had been spotted at the Sundargarh–Jharsuguda border. On Monday morning, we received information that the tiger has entered the Jharsuguda Division. Near Banrai Reserve Forest, we found pugmarks which, after verification, matched those from Sundargarh, confirming it is the same tiger.”
Bhat further added that around 20 forest personnel have been deployed to monitor the area, while teams from Sundargarh and Bamra divisions are also keeping vigil. To ascertain the tiger’s movement, forest officials have begun installing nearly 21 trap cameras in and around that area. “Our primary focus is to obtain visual proof of the tiger’s exact location. Continuous tracking efforts are being made,” the DFO said.
While officials assured that the tiger has so far remained confined to the forest, residents of nearby Talmunda village and adjoining areas have been urged to exercise caution. “We request locals not to venture out alone during early mornings or night. Such precautions will help ensure their safety,” Bhat cautioned.
