In Mysuru, recent deaths and recurrent sightings of big cats near tiger reserves have heightened concerns among local inhabitants. Search operations continue for a big cat responsible for mauling a 48-year-old woman, with personnel cautioning villagers to remain vigilant and avoid venturing alone into the fringes to prevent potential danger.
Since January 2023, four people, including a 10-year-old boy, have lost their lives to tiger attacks in the Mysuru region, with most incidents occurring near tiger reserves. Nagarahole and Bandipur Tiger Reserves have each reported two deaths, with three fatalities recorded in 2023 and the recent attack being the first this year.
In late 2023, two tigers were sighted near human habitats in Mysuru and Srirangapatna taluks, causing alarm among villagers and forest officers. Despite efforts by the forest department, the whereabouts of these big cats remain unknown. Some officers speculate that the tigers may have retreated to the forests or are hiding in fields, as no incidents of cattle predation have been reported.
Project-Tiger Director P Ramesh Kumar noted that of the four fatalities since January 2023, three occurred within reserve forests, while one happened on the fringes of the tiger reserve. While tigers emerging from forests is common, incidents of attacks on humans have increased in recent times due to trespassing into areas designated for these animals.