Mysuru: A sloth bear attack on a forest watcher in Nagarahole Tiger Reserve has created panic among the field staff and their families.The incident occurred when the forest watcher was conducting his routine patrolling duties recently. The watcher suffered severe injuries to his face and upper body during the encounter with the aggressive bear, which gouged one of his eyes.Following the incident, family members of staffers have requested them to avoid solitary patrols, especially during dawn and dusk when wildlife activity is at its peak, an officer said. Though the officer stated that bear attacks came as a surprise for them, the staffers admit every day is an anxious day for them.The ground staffers have acknowledged these concerns and are reviewing their current safety measures. Senior officials are considering implementing a two-staff beat system for patrol duties and providing additional protective gear to the field staff.This incident has brought back memories of past wildlife encounters in the forest. Most notably, in 2018, an Indian forest service officer, Manikandan, lost his life in a tragic encounter with a tusker in Nagarahole. Such incidents highlight the inherent risks faced by forest personnel in their line of duty. Another staffer was killed in an elephant attack in Chamarajanagar.Local wildlife experts explain that sloth bears are generally shy creatures, but can become aggressive when surprised at close quarters. Meanwhile, the injured forest watcher is recovering well. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by forest guards who work tirelessly to protect our wildlife and forests.Another staffer felt the need for additional safety guards on the lines of the police department, which provides protective shields to protect themselves from stones and other materials thrown at them during protests and other emergency situations.
