The Andhra Pradesh Forest Department has stepped up efforts to safely capture the tiger that has been on the prowl across forest areas in Eluru, Rajamahendravaram, Kakinada, Chinturu and the Papikonda National Park region.

Experts from the Bengaluru-based Wildlife SOS organisation and the Wardha unit of People for Animals have been deployed, along with experienced personnel from various tiger reserves. Six trained tranquilliser shooters have been kept on standby.

According to forest officials, the tiger has displayed exceptional agility and caution, avoiding areas with human activity and even locations where observation platforms, known as machans, have been erected. Despite these challenges, expert teams have been working round the clock to trace the animal.

The department has adopted several advanced search and tracking methods based on pugmarks, camera-trap footage and location data.

Officials have divided the operational zone into inner and outer rectangles as part of a double-rectangle strategy aimed at restricting the tiger’s movement. Baits and traps have been placed to lure the animal into a designated area where tranquilliser teams and veterinary experts are waiting.

Nearly 350 personnel from territorial and wildlife divisions, along with local villagers, have been involved in the operation. Communication is being maintained through walkie-talkies and a VHF communication network.

Forest teams are also employing star-pattern and U-shaped search methods to monitor the possible routes taken by the tiger. Thermal drones, night-vision cameras, tracking teams and net fencing are being used to improve the chances of capturing the animal safely.

The department has been monitoring the tiger’s movement. It has alerted residents of Darbhagudem, P. Rajavaram, Chellavarigudem, A. Polavaram, Appalarajugudem, Sirivarigudem, Ramannapalem, Madakavarigudem, Datlavarigudem, Sriratnagudem, Sitampeta and nearby villages through drum announcements and public address systems.

Officials from the Kannapuram, Polavaram, Kukkunoor and Jangareddygudem forest ranges have been placed on high alert. The department has appealed to residents to remain calm, follow official instructions and cooperate with the authorities until the operation is completed.

Chief Conservator of Forests (Rajamahendravaram) T. Jyothi and Eluru District Forest Officer P.V. Sandeep Reddy are supervising the operation and reviewing the measures being undertaken on the ground.

Published - August 06, 2026 01:13 pm IST