Tiger threat in Wayanad again, footprints seen at Kambipalam

WAYANAD: The locals criticized the forest department after footprints of a tiger were seen at Kambipalam in Thalapuzha. The locals alleged that the forest department is not taking necessary steps despite the presence of tigers in these areas before. They had complained that tigers were seen in several places in Kampipalam during the past week. Officials came yesterday to inspect and confirmed that they were footprints of a tiger.

The locals demanded that surveillance cameras and cages to catch the tiger be installed in these areas. The forest department has clarified that the cage will be installed only after the presence of the tiger is confirmed after the surveillance cameras are installed first. The locals had also alleged that the tiger was present in the Meppadi and Padivayal areas the other day. The tiger had bitten and killed two goats belonging to farmers.

The locals had organized a strong protest against the forest department after the incident of a tiger biting and killing a woman in Pancharakolly last month. The locals demanded that the tiger be caught and killed as soon as possible. However, while searching, the forest department found dead the man-eating tiger.