HYDERABAD: The tiger population in the Nallamala Forest has increased to over 80, according to recent estimates by forest department officials. This growth has led to tigers venturing closer to villages and hamlets in the Palnadu district, causing concern among local residents.
Established in 1983, the Rajiv Gandhi Tiger Project encompasses the Nallamala region, extending through Srisailam, Nandyal, and into forested areas bordering Telangana. The initial tiger population introduced into the sanctuary has flourished, with current numbers surpassing 80. Conservation efforts within the sanctuary, including the installation of trap cameras near water bodies and other strategic locations, have facilitated accurate monitoring of the tiger populace. Officials plan to release comprehensive data on the tiger count in the near future.
The Srisailam Sagar Tiger Reserve Forest, renowned as the state’s largest tiger sanctuary, spans the Nallamala region within Palnadu district. The rise in tiger numbers has led to increased movement of these big cats throughout the forest, often in search of water sources. Reports indicate that tigers have been sighted near the fringes of villages and hamlets in Veldurthi, Rentachintala, and Macherla mandals, raising concerns among local communities.
In light of these developments, forest department officials are urging farmers with agricultural lands adjacent to forest areas to exercise caution. Similarly, livestock herders are advised to remain vigilant while grazing their animals near forest boundaries. The presence of tigers near human settlements has understandably caused anxiety among residents. Notably, two years ago, tigers were spotted near Gajapuram in Durgi mandal, where they attacked and killed cattle. Authorities are expected to release detailed information regarding the current tiger population in the Nallamala Forest in the coming days.
