Fatal Tiger Attack in Karnataka: Third Human Death in One Month Prompts Safari Suspension

Trekking in areas with high human-wildlife conflict is to be suspended soon (Representational)

Bengaluru:

A tragic tiger attack in Mysuru district on Friday claimed the life of a farmer, prompting Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre to order immediate suspension of safari operations in Nagarahole and Bandipur Tiger Reserves. The minister also directed an immediate halt to trekking activities in regions known for human-wildlife conflict.

The victim, identified as 35-year-old Chowdayya Nayak, was attacked and killed in Hale Heggudilu village located in Saragur taluk of Mysuru district, according to officials.

Officials noted this marks the third fatality from tiger attacks in the region within just one month.

In formal instructions issued to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force) and Chief Wildlife Warden, Minister Khandre expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and mandated the immediate suspension of safari services across both reserves until further notice. Staff previously engaged in these tourism activities have been reassigned to assist in efforts to capture the tiger.

Khandre described the loss of three human lives due to tiger attacks along the Bandipur-Nagarahole forest belt in Mysuru and Chamarajanagara districts within the last month as "deeply distressing."

According to a statement from the Minister's office, after previous attacks, review meetings were conducted in Bandipur on October 27 and in Chamarajanagara on November 2, attended by district in-charge ministers and local MLAs.

"We held discussions with farmers and local residents, and warnings were issued that safaris might need to be suspended if necessary. However, another tragic incident has occurred, causing shock," Khandre stated.

The minister has now issued definitive orders to halt safari operations in both Nagarahole and Bandipur, while also suspending trekking activities in areas with high human-wildlife conflict. Additionally, all officials, vehicle drivers, and staff previously assigned to safari duties are now being deployed to participate in the tiger capture operation.

The Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and the Director of Project Tiger have also received instructions to establish camp on site and implement necessary measures to capture the tiger, the statement added.