Tiger on the Loose

Place: Alwar, Rajasthan

Date: August 15, 2024

A wave of terror has gripped villages bordering the Sariska Tiger Reserve after a stray tiger, identified as ST 2303, escaped the sanctuary and attacked at least five people in the Khairthal-Tijara district. The incidents, which took place early on August 15th, have sparked widespread fear and prompted authorities to launch a massive manhunt for the big cat.

One of the victims, Vikas Kumar, a railway employee from Basni village, was severely injured while waiting for his brother at Ajarka railway station. According to eyewitnesses, the tiger attacked Kumar before fleeing the scene when approached by a motorcycle. Kumar sustained critical injuries, including the loss of one hand.

Other victims, whose identities have not been fully disclosed, were reportedly attacked while working in fields near the forest. There are multiple injuries suffered by attack victims though accurate nature of their injuries still unclear till now.

The attacks have prompted the closure of schools in the affected areas as a precautionary measure. Residents have been advised to remain indoors and avoid venturing into isolated areas.

Forest officials, along with wildlife experts, have formed teams to track down the tiger and tranquilize it safely. Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajendra Hooda, stated, "We are using advanced tracking techniques, including drones and camera traps, to locate the tiger. The safety of the public and catching the stray tiger is our main concern."

Local authorities have also been deployed to assist in the search and provide support to the affected villagers. The District officials have assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to contain the situation.

This is not the first time that tiger ST 2303 has caused concern. The same animal was involved in an attack on a farmer in Bhiwadi earlier this year. The repeated escapes of the tiger have raised questions about the security measures in place at the Sariska Tiger Reserve.

As the search for the tiger continues, residents of the affected villages live in constant fear. The incident has also highlighted the delicate balance between wildlife conservation and human safety.