Tiger Spotted Near Munnar Tea Estate, Officials Confirm
A tiger was filmed near Munnar's tea plantations, retreating into bushes. Officials confirm sightings and cattle attacks in the region.
A tiger was spotted on a road connecting Goodarvila Estate in Nettikkudy Division to Silent Valley near Munnar, prompting concern among local plantation workers. The animal retreated into nearby tea bushes when it noticed an approaching vehicle.
Munnar Range Officer S. Biju confirmed the authenticity of a video showing the tiger and said its presence has been reported in the area. "Tiger sightings and cattle attacks have been reported in the Pampanmala, Thenmala, and Silent Valley areas. The tiger seen in the video is a healthy animal and is occasionally spotted in this region," he said.
Residents say recurring cattle losses are causing financial distress for plantation labourers who depend on dairy farming. Forest department officials confirmed that compensation is being provided for cattle lost to tiger attacks.
To mitigate further incidents, the department plans to instruct plantation managements to ensure livestock are sheltered in sheds by early afternoon, given the recurring attacks across Devikulam and Munnar.