Bengal tiger spotted in high-altitude Champawat village

Pithoragarh: A Bengal tiger was spotted in Balatadi village under the Bhingrara range of Champawat district earlier this week, triggering concern among residents. A video of the animal, which circulated widely, was shared with the forest department.Ranger of the Bhingrara range, Himalaya Singh Tolia said, "A Forest team carried out patrolling in the area and installed camera traps, though no further movement was recorded." Villagers have been advised to remain cautious.Residents said the sighting on Tuesday has caused fear, particularly among women who regularly go into nearby forests to collect fodder and fuel. A govt inter-college located about 2 km from the village has also raised concerns among staff.DFO Ashutosh Singh said, "Tigers are usually found in the Tarai belt of Nainital and Udham Singh Nagar at elevations of 1,500–2,000 feet, while Bhingrara lies above 5,000 feet. Similar movements have also been noticed in neighbouring Bageshwar district."Corbett Foundation coordinator H S Bargail said territorial displacement and habitat disruption due to roads, rail lines and urbanisation could be pushing tigers into new areas.