Tamil Nadu Orders Capture of Tiger After Second Fatal Attack in Gudalur
The Chief Wildlife Warden of Tamil Nadu has ordered the capture of a tiger that killed a second person in the Gudalur forest division, following growing public concern and protests by local residents. The order comes after the animal attacked and killed a 51-year-old man in Lauriston, O'Valley range, on Friday, August 21, 2026.
The deceased has been identified as K. Ravikumar, a resident of Lauriston Number 4, Vattaparai, Choondi. Officials stated that an investigation at the site confirmed the attack was carried out by a tiger. Camera traps placed in the area after a previous incident also confirmed the presence of the animal.
This was the second fatal attack by the same tiger within a fortnight. On August 9, 2026, M. Balakrishnan, 58, was killed while collecting water for his agricultural field from a stream near his house. Following that incident, the forest department deployed drones to track the tiger, but the efforts did not yield results.
The latest death sparked protests by local residents on Friday, who condemned the Forest Department and the State Government for failing to capture the tiger earlier. In response, the Chief Wildlife Warden issued the capture order after receiving applications from the Divisional Forest Officer and the Conservator of Forests (Nilgiris).
Efforts to capture the animal have already begun. According to forest officials, four cages and 22 camera traps have been placed in the surrounding area to locate and trap the tiger. The operation is being carried out with the assistance of local staff and veterinary experts.
The Nilgiris district, known for its rich biodiversity and forest cover, has seen increasing instances of human-wildlife conflict in recent years. Officials have urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid venturing into forest areas alone, especially during early morning and late evening hours when wildlife activity is high.
The forest department has also appealed for public cooperation in the ongoing operation, stressing that the capture is being done to ensure the safety of both the local population and the tiger. Further updates are expected as the operation progresses.
