Bagaha: Panic has spread through a village in Bihar’s Bagaha subdivision after a tiger emerged from a nearby forest and killed a cow calf grazing near the Masan River on Friday.
The incident took place near Bada Belwa village in Ramnagar block, where villagers later discovered the carcass along with fresh tiger pugmarks, raising fears of the big cat’s continued presence in the area.
Tiger Attacks Calf Near River
According to local residents, Krishna Yadav, a farmer from Bada Belwa village, had taken his cattle to graze near the river when the tiger, reportedly hiding in a nearby sugarcane field, attacked a calf.
Villagers rushed to the spot after hearing the commotion, but the tiger had already killed the animal before retreating towards the forest.
The discovery of pugmarks at the site heightened concerns among residents.
Fear Among Villagers
Residents said tiger sightings have become increasingly frequent over the past week, making it difficult for people to work in nearby fields.
“We usually go to the fields to cut grass, but now we are afraid to go there. Today, the tiger came out of the forest and killed a cow calf,” said Sugan Devi, a resident of Bada Belwa village.
Villagers have demanded that the Forest Department increase patrolling and ensure the animal is safely driven back into the forest.
Forest Department Launches Tracking Operation
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Vikas Ahlawat said the Forest Department’s Raghiya Range team reached the site soon after receiving information about the attack.
Officials inspected the area and began tracking the tiger using pugmarks and other evidence. Surveillance has also been intensified in the surrounding villages.
The department said tiger movement has been reported around the Masan River and adjoining agricultural fields for nearly a week, and teams have been attempting to guide the animal back into its natural habitat.
Public Asked To Remain Vigilant
The Forest Department has advised residents not to venture alone into forests or riverbank areas and to graze livestock in groups, particularly during the early morning and evening hours.
Officials have also urged villagers to immediately report any tiger sightings or suspicious animal movement to the Forest Department.
The latest incident has heightened anxiety in Bada Belwa and neighbouring villages, with residents expressing concern over the increasing proximity of wildlife to human settlements.
