Home / Environment / Sixth Tiger Dies in Goa Amidst Reserve Controversy
Sixth Tiger Dies in Goa Amidst Reserve Controversy
2 May
Summary
- A tiger carcass was discovered in Goa's Dharbandora forest area.
- Preliminary findings suggest the tiger died of natural causes.
- This marks the sixth tiger death in Goa since 2009.
A tiger was discovered deceased in the forests of Goa's Dharbandora on Saturday, prompting an immediate investigation by the forest department. The decomposed carcass was found near Aaglot village. Officials indicated that preliminary inquiries point towards natural causes for the death, though a forensic report is pending.
This event is the sixth reported tiger death in Goa since 2009, reigniting debate over declaring a tiger reserve. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has previously recommended such a declaration for areas including the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary.
Concerns about poaching were raised due to the decomposed state of the carcass and missing parts. However, officials suggested these could be natural occurrences or the result of scavenging. The location of the find falls outside protected sanctuary areas.
Past incidents, including the poisoning of four tigers in January 2020, have fueled demands for reserve status. Despite court directives and recommendations, the Goa government has argued against declaring a reserve, citing a lack of resident tigers.
