Title: Tiger Overpopulation Threatens Human Safety: Urgent Action Needed
Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh: The wild habitat at Amangarh Tiger Reserve (ATR) in Bijnor is currently facing a critical issue of overpopulation, putting human lives at risk. With the reserve originally designed to accommodate 12 tigers, it is now home to a staggering count of 27, surpassing its capacity by a wide margin. Tigers, known for their territorial nature, require an extensive area of about eight square kilometers to thrive. However, due to limited space, these majestic creatures are gradually encroaching upon other forest ranges, thereby endangering both human and animal lives.
Officials at Bijnor’s sub-divisional forest office have expressed their concerns over this alarming situation. Gyan Singh, the officer in charge, stated that tigers have started venturing into new territories, such as Shahuwala, Badhapur, and Kaudia, where they were rarely observed in the past. The consequences are becoming evident, as an eight-month-old elephant was recently found dead in the Jehanabad area of Barhapur range. The calf’s injuries indicated an attack by a tiger, emphasizing the imminent threat posed by the increasing tiger population.
Experts emphasize that with diminishing space, territorial conflicts between these big cats are inevitable. In an attempt to address this issue, it has been proposed to declare more areas as reserve forests to curb the negative impact. Saleel Shukla, a prominent wildlife expert and former DFO in Bijnor, explains that as tiger numbers rise, the forest grasslands that provide essential prey for herbivores are shrinking. This scarcity ultimately leads to conflicts among the big cats. Therefore, extending the area of the ATR becomes crucial in order to maintain a viable habitat for these majestic creatures.
One forest officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, also highlighted that forest grasslands are rapidly disappearing due to encroachments by pastoral communities like the Van Gujjars and farmers. Reports indicate that around 1,000 hectares of forest land have been lost. He further warned that tigers may venture into human settlements in the future. In addition to this, villages surrounding the ATR are already under pressure from a growing leopard population, which has been pushed out of the forests and into sugarcane fields, posing a new threat to farmers.
Efforts must be made to address the emerging crisis caused by tiger overpopulation. Balancing the needs of both tigers and humans is crucial, along with implementing measures to protect the vital grassland habitats. Local authorities should consider extending the ATR’s boundaries and declaring additional areas as reserve forests to accommodate the growing tiger population. Simultaneously, initiatives focused on minimizing encroachments and promoting peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife should be prioritized.
As the number of tigers continues to rise, proactive measures must be taken urgently to safeguard both wildlife and human communities. By implementing these steps, authorities can effectively address the current crisis and ensure a harmonious living environment for all concerned.
