Karnataka Tigers Prompt Safari Closures, Trekking Suspended
Karnataka Tigers Prompt Safari Closures, Trekking Suspended
Rising tiger attacks in Mysuru region push authorities to shut Bandipur and Nagarahole safaris and halt trekking in conflict zones while a hunt for the elusive tigers continues.
Another farmer was killed in a tiger attack in Saragur taluk's Hale Heggudilu village, marking the third fatal encounter in the area in a matter of weeks. The morning attack on November 7 left 35-year-old Chowdaiah Naika dead after a tiger dragged him from his field to an elephant-proof trench on the edge of the forest. Local officials say the body was found in the trench by villagers, reinforcing fears that human settlements touch close to the forest fringe.
In the wider Saragur-HD Kote belt, authorities have logged at least four tiger attacks in recent weeks, with one survivor losing vision and receiving treatment in a private hospital. While it is too early to confirm whether a single tiger is responsible for all incidents, officials point to the movement of big cats around the fringes of Bandipur and Nagarahole as winter approaches, increasing the chances of encounters near human habitation. Combing operations and camera-trap surveillance are ongoing to identify the tigers involved and to prevent further tragedies.
In a dramatic turn, Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar B. Khandre ordered the immediate closure of safaris in Bandipur and Nagarahole and suspended trekking in human-wildlife conflict zones. He also directed that all available forest personnel, safari staff, and vehicle drivers be redeployed to support a coordinated tiger-capture operation. He expressed deep sorrow over the death and appealed for calm while stressing that safety and conservation must go hand in hand.
Officials say two tigers have been identified through camera-trap images, with one already captured during recent field operations. While authorities push for rapid action, they emphasise that capturing the killer(s) is essential to prevent further losses and to restore a sense of security among villagers. The closures will remain in place until further notice as the hunt continues, and forest teams reassess routes for safer coexistence between people and the big cats.
Cover image source: Farmer killed in tiger attack in Mysuru district, third such case in Saragur taluk 🔗
