Maharashtra initiates measures against tiger attack casualties

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has called for new measures to prevent deaths from tiger attacks in Gadchiroli district. He has ordered experts to conduct a study on the issue. The report from this study is expected within three months. Fadnavis highlighted the serious loss of life due to these attacks, with over 50 fatalities reported in the last five years. The attacks have happened in various areas, including Gadchiroli and Dhanora. He has directed that some tigers will be relocated based on the study's findings. As part of the response, Fadnavis wants special compensation for families of those killed in tiger attacks during the past five years. A meeting was held with senior forest officials to discuss ways to address the problem. Proposed solutions include improving the environment in Chaprala and Pranhita sanctuaries to support prey for the tigers. They plan to appoint forest patils in each village and provide biogas to reduce villagers' need for firewood from the forests. Other decisions made during the meeting include speeding up compensation for crops damaged by wildlife and assessing the economic conditions of locals in six villages for potential relocation. Experts from the Wildlife Institute will also be involved in further actions. The need for policy changes regarding the relocation of older tigers involved in conflicts was also recognized.