Tiger Returns to Forest, Eases Tensions in Kerala

A tiger that wandered into populated areas from the Pathiri reserve in Kerala has returned to the forest, easing local tensions. The forest department is enhancing monitoring and contingency plans are in place, including tranquillisation, to ensure safety should the animal stray again.

The Kerala Forest Department has confirmed that the tiger, which had strayed into populated areas from the Pathiri reserve, has safely returned to the forest. Wayanad South Divisional Forest Officer Ajith K Raman indicated that pug marks confirmed the tiger's retreat back into its natural habitat.

Forest officials are taking preventative measures by installing camera traps and intensifying patrolling in the area to deter the tiger from straying again. State Forest Minister A K Saseendran assured the public of the department's readiness to capture or tranquillise the tiger if it reappears in inhabited areas.

The tiger's appearance had caused concern in the Panamaram panchayat, where schools were closed and residents advised to stay indoors. While the tiger showed no aggression, efforts, including the use of rapid response teams and kumki elephants, are in place to manage any potential situation effectively.

(With inputs from agencies.)