Yavatmal: Fear gripped residents in Shindola area of Wani taluka in Yavatmal district after frequent sighting of tigers in the nearby forest region. The movement of tigers in the forests adjoining the villages has created panic among farmers and labourers, while also triggering a serious livelihood crisis for those dependent on forest produce and agricultural work.According to reports, on April 2, a few farmers going to their fields along a road near Shindola Khan area spotted a tigress and two cubs crossing the road. The farmers slowed down their vehicle and captured visuals on their phones before informing forest dept officials. Subsequently, the forest dept installed trap cameras in the area to monitor tiger movement.Villages including Kurli, Yenak, Hanuman Nagar, Chikhli, Takli, and Kolgaon are located close to the forest, increasing the risk for residents. A significant tribal population resides in Kurli and Shindola, where many families depend on collecting forest produce such as tendu leaves and other seasonal resources during summer for their livelihood. However, due to the presence of tigers, entry to forest areas has become unsafe, leaving many labourers without work and pushing them into financial distress.Local farmer Anil Garghate said that the presence of water and safe shelter in the hilly forest areas has led to an increase in tiger activity. “We have to risk our lives even while going to our fields,” he said.Forest Guard Vijay Bobde confirmed that a tigress and her two cubs were spotted on the road in the Shindola area. “After receiving the information of the sighting, trap cameras have been installed to monitor the situation,” he added.
