The tiger that triggered panic across several villages in East Godavari district is now safe and under medical observation at the Visakhapatnam Zoo. Forest officials confirmed that the animal is recovering well, while a dedicated veterinary team continues to closely monitor its health.
According to officials, the tiger is around three to three-and-a-half years old. After the sedative wore off, it showed signs of natural wild behaviour, which experts described as a positive indicator. Authorities plan to keep the tiger under observation for 45 days in a controlled environment that matches its natural habitat. Once it fully regains strength, officials may consider releasing it back into the forest.
Six Days of Fear in East Godavari Villages
For nearly six days, the tiger kept residents of East Godavari on edge. Villages such as Raghunathapuram, G. Yerrampalem, and Kurmapuram witnessed repeated sightings. During this period, the animal attacked and killed around nine cattle and calves, forcing villagers to stay indoors through the nights.
Tension peaked on Friday morning when villagers in Kurmapuram, under the Mandapeta constituency, heard loud roars from an abandoned house. Locals immediately alerted the forest department. Police, revenue officials, and forest staff rushed to the spot and launched a large-scale operation.
Dramatic Escape and Final Capture
Expert teams from Pune and Delhi joined the mission and attempted to tranquilize the tiger. However, at around 1:30 pm, the operation took an unexpected turn. The tiger suddenly leapt over a wall and vanished into nearby agricultural fields, right in front of a large crowd. The dramatic escape caused fresh panic in the area.
Despite the setback, forest teams refused to give up. They tracked the tiger using thermal drones and trap cameras. By Friday evening, officials located it near Kotha Cheruvu. Acting swiftly, the team successfully administered a tranquilliser and secured the animal without further incident.
With the operation ending safely, residents across East Godavari are finally breathing easy, relieved that the tense situation has come to a close.
For the latest updates, click here.
