A 55-year-old farmer, Maleyali Rajan, had a close brush with death when a tiger attacked him while he was working on his farm in Nitturu village, Balele hobli, South Kodagu. Startled by his loud cries, the tiger retreated into the forest, leaving Rajan with injuries to his chest and ear.
He was rushed to the government hospital in Virajpet, where doctors treated his wounds. Sanketh Poovaiah, a member of the State Wildlife Board, visited Rajan to offer reassurance and pledged full support for his recovery. Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna directed the forest department to initiate an urgent operation to track and safely relocate the tiger to avoid further incidents.
Forest officials from the Virajpet division inspected the attack site and began preparations for a combing operation. The region has been witnessing a surge in human-wildlife conflicts, heightening fears among residents.
Instances of tigers preying on livestock have alarmed farmers, including a recent attack on a cow in Badaga Banangala village. Forest authorities conducted rescue missions to tranquilize and relocate rogue tigers, highlighting the escalating crisis.
In addition to tiger sightings, wild elephants have caused extensive damage to crops, further straining livelihoods in Kodagu. Farmers continue to express frustration over the frequent wildlife invasions, which have led to significant losses.
Efforts to mitigate these conflicts are ongoing, as officials strive to protect both the community and wildlife.