Why is a tiger roaming near Rajahmundry town?
Synopsis
Residents of Rajahmundry are on edge as a tiger roams in their vicinity for over five days. The forest department is on high alert, working tirelessly to ensure public safety while tracking the elusive big cat.
Key Takeaways
Authorities are actively searching for the tiger.
Public safety measures are in place, including school closures.
Residents are advised to stay vigilant and report sightings.
The tiger is believed to have migrated from Maharashtra.
Efforts to capture the tiger are being supported by specialized teams.
Amaravati, Feb 5 (NationPress) The forest department of Andhra Pradesh has escalated its operations to capture a tiger that has been wandering in and around Rajahmundry town, located in the East Godavari district, for the past five days, causing widespread alarm.
Authorities issued a warning after confirming that the large feline had attacked and killed livestock near Bhupalapatnam village in Rajanagaram mandal, approximately 20 km from Rajahmundry.
Personnel from the forest department, local police, and the Rapid Action Force have joined forces to safely capture the tiger while ensuring public safety.
The Collector of East Godavari district, Kirthi Chekuri, announced a closure of schools in the nearby regions.
Officials have detected signs of tiger activity in the G. Yerrampalem area where three calves have been found dead. It seems the tiger’s movements are restricted to this vicinity, he noted.
On Wednesday night, the tiger attacked Punyakshetram, killing a cow in a palm oil plantation.
Authorities have urged residents to remain indoors and avoid areas where the tiger has been sighted.
Students, children, and the elderly are advised against leaving their homes unless absolutely necessary. Safety guidelines suggest avoiding solitary trips to fields, orchards, or wooded areas.
People are encouraged to stay alert and instructed not to provoke or harm the tiger.
Citizens are reminded to report any sightings or suspicious tracks to the relevant forest or police officers immediately.
Twelve teams of forest officials are actively engaged in the search for the tiger.
The State Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, P.V. Chalapati Rao, confirmed that they have received authorization to tranquilize the tiger and relocate it to a forested area. Specialized teams from Pune and Delhi have been dispatched to assist.
Officials have implemented traps and prepared tranquilizers and cages to catch the elusive animal.
The tiger is thought to have migrated to the region from Maharashtra through Telangana and Chhattisgarh.
Forest officials estimate that the tiger has traveled approximately 600 km over the past 15 days.
For the last five days, the tiger is believed to have remained within a 10 to 20-kilometer radius of Rajahmundry, heightening public concern and keeping authorities on high alert.
Late Tuesday night, the tiger was spotted near the National Highway close to the Diwan Cheruvu center, and was seen near a corporate school and the SVBC Convention Centre, causing vehicles to halt on the roadway.
Rajanageram MLA B Balarama Krishna stated that government agencies have granted permission to tranquilize and safely capture the tiger due to its presence in populated areas.
Point of View
It is equally crucial to ensure the well-being of the tiger, a vital part of our ecosystem. Authorities must strike a balance between protecting residents and preserving wildlife.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are currently affected by tiger movements?
The tiger has been moving primarily around Rajahmundry, with significant activity noted in Bhupalapatnam and G. Yerrampalem.
What safety measures are being taken?
Authorities have declared school holidays, advised residents to stay indoors, and deployed multiple teams to capture the tiger safely.
How far has the tiger traveled?
The tiger is estimated to have traveled approximately 600 km over the last 15 days, entering the area from Maharashtra.
What should citizens do if they see the tiger?
Residents should report any sightings or suspicious signs to the forest or police officials immediately.
Are there any plans to capture the tiger?
Yes, special teams have been arranged to tranquilize and safely relocate the tiger back to a forested area.
