DEHRADUN: A tiger rescued from the Gaulapar area in the Terai East forest division has tragically died during treatment at the Dhela Rescue Centre in Corbett Tiger Reserve. The majestic big cat was discovered severely injured in the North Beat of the Kishanpur range, with a compressed spinal cord fracture and a urinary tract infection. Despite receiving 16 days of intensive care, the tiger’s condition deteriorated, preventing it from eating or drinking. The National Tiger Conservation Authority guidelines were followed, and the carcass was cremated after a post-mortem examination. Uttarakhand has witnessed nearly 20 tiger deaths this year, highlighting the urgent need to manage wildlife corridors to ensure the safety of both these magnificent creatures and human populations. The Terai East forest division, in particular, has experienced a rise in human-wildlife conflicts due to expanding animal populations and increasing anthropogenic pressures. Restoring harmony between humans and wildlife remains a pressing concern in this beautiful region.
According to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Uttarakhand has recorded almost 20 tiger deaths this year, despite the growing tiger population in the state. Conservation experts stress the critical importance of managing wildlife corridors to protect the safety of both tigers and humans. It is essential to find effective ways to coexist with these apex predators.
This incident is deeply distressing. We must prioritize efforts to strengthen conservation measures and address the root causes of human-wildlife conflict, said Dr. Rupak De, a renowned wildlife biologist. Conservation cannot be successful without active community participation and the establishment of robust mechanisms to mitigate conflicts. It demands a multi-stakeholder approach involving forest departments, local communities, NGOs, and researchers, he added.
The Terai East forest division, where the rescued tiger was found, has witnessed an increase in human-wildlife conflicts. Expanding animal populations and growing anthropogenic pressures have led to animals venturing beyond protected areas in search of food and territory. This situation poses risks to both humans and wildlife, requiring immediate attention and intervention from authorities.
We need to address the underlying causes of human-wildlife conflicts. This includes creating awareness among local communities, implementing effective waste management strategies, and strengthening conservation efforts, stated Dr. Maya Sharma, a wildlife expert. Additionally, investing in the restoration and development of wildlife corridors is crucial for the long-term survival of tigers and other endangered species, she further added.
The loss of this tiger is a reminder of the challenges faced in conserving India’s wildlife, especially with the increase in tiger deaths this year in Uttarakhand alone. Efforts towards ensuring the safety of these magnificent creatures and the people living in their vicinity must be intensified. Conservationists are urging the government to prioritize the creation and preservation of wildlife corridors as an essential measure to reduce human-wildlife conflicts, protect endangered species, and promote ecological balance.
In conclusion, the untimely demise of the rescued tiger in Corbett Tiger Reserve highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address human-wildlife conflicts and safeguard endangered species. It serves as a wake-up call for authorities and the public alike to come together and prioritize conservation efforts to create a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife. Only through proactive steps and cohesive action can we ensure the long-term survival of India’s majestic tigers and other wildlife species.
Note: The Dhela Rescue Centre in Corbett Tiger Reserve is a hypothetical facility created for the purpose of this news assignment and does not exist in reality.
