Nilgiris , 23 August (H.S.):Tamil Nadu Forest officials have stepped up a major operation to capture a male tiger linked to two fatal attacks at Lauriston in O-Valley town panchayat near Gudalur. The animal has been classified as a man-eater following evidence that it consumed parts of both victims.

Six cages fitted with live bait have been placed near the attack sites and along routes frequently used by the tiger. Four specialised teams are involved in the operation, while estate workers and residents have been advised to stay away from plantations and forested areas.

The tiger, believed to be between eight and 10 years old, allegedly killed K. Ravikumar, whose body was found around 2 p.m. on Friday, about 200 metres from his residence. Its first suspected victim was M. Balakrishnan, 58, of Field 4, Lauriston Estate, whose partially consumed remains were recovered on August 9.

Officials concluded that the same animal was involved in both incidents after pugmarks collected from the two locations showed similarities. Gudalur District Forest Officer P. Devaraj said the injuries and evidence of the victims' bodies being consumed justified its classification as a man-eater.

Two seven-member teams are tracking the tiger on foot using pugmarks, scat and other signs. Two additional teams are surveying the area with drones. Each ground team has been equipped with a firearm and protective gear.

Officials said every effort would be made to tranquilise and capture the tiger. However, personnel could shoot the animal if it charges and poses an immediate danger to human life.

The tiger's health could not be assessed conclusively from camera-trap images. A veterinary examination will be conducted after its capture.

The animal may be shifted to the Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Vandalur or the Wildlife Transit and Treatment Centre at Pethikuttai in Sirumugai, subject to approval from Chief Wildlife Warden Rakesh Kumar Dogra.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman