Yawamal: The villagers of Yawamal distict took a sigh of relief after the Forest Department succeeded in caging the ‘man-eater’ tigress that had spread a wave of panic in Andharwadi, Wasari, Kopamandvi, Kobbai and other villages under Pandharktigresawda forest range of Tipeshwar Sanctuary.
After primary treatment, the tigress has been shifted to temporary treatment centre in Nagpur. Notably, Guardian Minister and Forest Minister Sanjay Rathod had organised an emergency meeting with villagers and forest officials to cage the tigress and avoid man-animal conflict incidents and issued directives to Forest Department in this regard.
The big cat had killed about six cattle, injured a woman and killed a woman. Considering the seriousness of the matter a special 8- member team and a quick response team from Amravati was assigned for the task.
As per the plan, a chain-link fencing was installed to prevent the entry of menacing tigress into the villages. About 27 camera traps were also installed to ascertain the identity of the menacing tigress. Finally, based on the pictures clicked by cameras and pugmarks, the identity of tigress was confirmed after which Chief Conservator of Forest, Yavatmal had sent a proposal to Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife), Nagpur for seeking permission to tranqulise and cage the tigress.
After getting necessary permission, the team launched an operation under the guidance of Deputy Conservator of Forest, Dr Chetan Patond, Veterinary Officer of Pench Tiger Project, and Dr Akshay Ghatare of Melghat Tiger Project.The team launched operation on September 22 and managed to tranqulise the menacing tigress.