MARGAO: The residents of Assolna and surrounding areas are experiencing fear and panic due to recent sightings of a big cat, believed to be a tiger.
Forest Department officials are monitoring the situation and are set to lay traps in response to residents’ concerns.
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While earlier sightings involved leopards, locals have now reported encounters with a tiger over the past few days. “Eye witnesses have claimed that the wild cat is a tiger. Yes, people are in fear and panic,” stated Velim MLA Cruz Silva.
Julio Quadros, a wildlife rescuer from the Forest Department assured that traps would be set at the identified locations soon. However, he added, “We are not sure if the big cat spotted is a tiger or a leopard. We are closely monitoring the situation.”
In response to the issue, Environment Minister Aleixo Sequeira addressed the growing interactions between humans and wild animals. He expressed concern over the encroachment of human territories into areas that were once enjoyed by animals. Sequeira acknowledged the recent lack of aggressive behavior from the wild cat despite close human encounters in Shiroda.
“Territories are being encroached by humans, which were once enjoyed by animals. Surprisingly, the wild cat was not reacting despite humans coming in very close contact with it in Shiroda. We need to find a solution to the issue,” he stated.
