Wayanad tiger responsible for woman’s death will be declared a man-eater and killed: Saseendran

Kalpetta, Wayanad: Kerala Forest Minister AK Saseendran announced that the tiger responsible for the death of a woman in Pancharakolly, Wayanad, will be declared a man-eater and will be shot dead.

The decision followed a high-level meeting at the district collectorate regarding wildlife attacks on Sunday.

The minister explained that the tiger, which had attacked a forest department employee during a patrol on Sunday, would be killed as per the decision taken in the high-level meeting. He also noted that this would be the first time in Kerala's history that a wildlife animal would be ordered to be killed.

He emphasized the need for changes to current wildlife laws, citing numerous instances of human casualties due to wildlife attacks in the state. The government will explore options to address the loopholes in existing regulations.

To monitor animal movement in human-inhabited areas, the Forest and Police departments will enhance surveillance. Additionally, AI surveillance cameras will be installed in high-risk areas by February 1, with 100 cameras allocated for the district. A total of 400 AI cameras will be installed across the state by March 31.

An action plan has already been implemented, taking into account the specific circumstances of the district, with the Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) tasked with ensuring its swift execution. Patrolling will be intensified in areas where wildlife encounters are frequent.