Bagaha/Patna: A 65-year-old man was critically injured after being attacked by a tiger in the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) in Bihar’s West Champaran district, officials said.
The attack took place in the Hathimal Khanta forest area, where the man had reportedly gone for work near the forest when he was mauled by the animal.
According to local reports, the tiger inflicted severe injuries to the man’s hands and legs before his cries for help alerted nearby residents and forest personnel.
Forest Team Launches Rescue
A forest department team reached the site after being informed of the incident and launched a rescue operation.
Officials managed to drive the tiger away and safely evacuate the injured man. He was given first aid before being referred to the sub-divisional hospital for advanced treatment because of the seriousness of his injuries.
Doctors treating him said he had sustained deep wounds on multiple parts of his body and remained in critical condition due to significant blood loss. He is being monitored by a medical team.
Panic Among Residents
The incident has triggered concern among residents living near the reserve, with locals urging the forest department to strengthen safety measures in areas vulnerable to tiger movement.
Forest officials have advised people to avoid entering forest areas alone and to remain vigilant, particularly in regions where tiger activity has been reported.
Human-Wildlife Conflict On The Rise
The latest attack comes amid reports of increasing tiger movement in and around the Valmiki Tiger Reserve, raising concerns over growing human-wildlife conflict.
The rise in encounters between people and wild animals has emerged as a significant challenge for both the forest department and the local administration, prompting renewed calls for measures to improve public safety while protecting wildlife.
