Odisha Officials Launch Tiger Hunt Amid Cattle Killings

The Odisha forest department has initiated a search for a tiger suspected of killing 17 cattle in Ganjam district over the past four months. With increased patrols, trap cameras, and advisories to locals, officials aim to capture the tiger soon to protect further livestock losses.

The Odisha forest department has initiated a search operation for a tiger suspected of killing 17 cattle in the Ganjam district over the past four months, according to an official statement on Sunday.

The most recent incident was reported on Friday when a cattle carcass was found in Dimiripalli within the Jagannath Prasad forest range. Ghumusar North Divisional Forest Officer Himansu Sekhar Mohanty said the tiger's attack has caused panic among villagers.

The forest personnel are patrolling the surrounding areas to identify and observe the animal's behavior. At least 30 trap cameras have been installed, and four teams are tracking the tiger’s movements. Villagers have been urged to avoid venturing into the forest and not to leave their cattle unattended. Local farmers recently submitted a memorandum demanding the tiger's capture to protect domestic livestock.