Prowling menace: Tiger sighted near Rajahmundry after crossing Godavari; authorities deploy drones and rapid response teams

RAJAHMUNDRY: A solitary tiger, originally from Maharashtra, has entered the Eluru district through Telangana state and is now causing panic in East Godavari district. The tiger crossed the Godavari River from Eluru and has been spotted in Thorredu, under the Rajahmundry rural mandal, where it has killed several cows and one calf.

Local residents and forest officials have observed the big cat in Gaadala village. Currently, the tiger is wandering near Auto Nagar, between Lalacheruvu and Diwancheruvu, both densely populated areas near Rajahmundry. It was seen climbing over the large wall of a private marriage hall, an incident captured by passengers in a car.

The challenge is that the tiger is traversing areas with high human density. According to the District Forest Officer, its movements have been confirmed through pug marks found in agricultural fields in Gaadala and Kolamuru villages. No additional cattle fatalities have been reported.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and avoid moving about at night, while securing their cattle within their homes. It is advised that they keep bright lights on their premises and create noise to deter the animal. Authorities are expecting the tiger to move towards Korukonda and Gokavaram areas. Villages within a 15-kilometer radius of Gaadala are advised to stay alert.

Preventive measures are being implemented, including the deployment of drones, cages, and trap cameras in areas where pug marks have been found. A special rapid response team, along with police and revenue teams, is making all necessary arrangements to ensure safety. Drones are also stationed in these locations.