Hyderabad: Following eight confirmed cattle kills by a tiger across various parts of the state, the Telangana forest department has intensified monitoring to track the big cat. To prevent harm to both people and wildlife, special patrol teams have been deployed in Siddipet, Jangaon, Karimnagar and Yadadri districts. These teams are conducting village-level surveillance, advising residents on safety measures and closely tracking the tiger’s movement. Tiger rescue experts from Pune are assisting in the operation, along with local veterinary officers. Officials said capture efforts would be undertaken, if required, in accordance with NTCA guidelines.Police have been deployed to prevent crowding near areas where the tiger has hunted. The forest department said official updates will be issued daily to curb misinformation on social media. The department urged the public to report sightings immediately and avoid sharing unverified information. Forest officials confirmed that as on Sunday, the tiger was located in and around Arepally village in Siddipet district and was seen moving in a northward direction. Tracking teams detected pugmarks on Friday and Saturday, and the animal was also sighted at a few locations during this period.After a high-level review meeting chaired by PCCF Dr Suvarna (IFS), on Monday, an expert committee meeting was chaired by chief wildlife warden Vinay Kumar (IFS) to plan further action.Residents of Sanigaram, Koheda mandals and surrounding villages have been advised to remain alert, avoid venturing out at night unless necessary, move in groups during emergencies, and keep livestock secured in sheds. Officials have assured compensation to the owners of cattle killed by the tiger.
