Forest Department Deploys Drones, Kumki Elephants, and Camera Traps in Intensive Operation
Malappuram, Kerala, May 17 – The search for the tiger that fatally attacked a rubber-tapping worker near Kalikavu continued on Saturday, though no further signs of the animal have been detected in the area since the incident, according to the forest department.Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Nilambur South, Dhanik Lal, stated that over 50 camera traps and thermal drone cameras have been deployed in the dense forest region to track the elusive predator. Despite the extensive surveillance, there has been no confirmation of the tiger's presence yet.
"Search operations are ongoing. We are using Google Maps and geo-tagging potential locations to strategically place cameras and ensure maximum area coverage," Lal said in a television interview.
He added that while thermal drone surveillance covered large areas earlier, efforts are now being expanded to nearby adjoining zones. One of the major challenges, he noted, is the thick undergrowth in certain forest patches, which may serve as potential hideouts for the tiger.
"Clearing such undergrowth is essential. We plan to consult with local farmers’ groups and the panchayat to get their assistance in removing these areas of dense vegetation," Lal explained.
The forest department has intensified efforts by deploying kumki elephants — trained captive tuskers — alongside three dedicated teams comprising 20 forest personnel. These teams, equipped with tranquilliser guns and supported by veterinarians, have been searching the area since Friday.
The incident that triggered the hunt occurred on Thursday, when 45-year-old Gafoor was attacked and dragged into the forest by the tiger while he was heading for rubber-tapping work with a friend.
Officials have vowed to continue the search until the tiger is located and captured, emphasizing the need for vigilance and support from local communities in the days ahead.