Tiger Trapped Near Jharkhali: 36-Hour Standoff

A tiger has remained in Kolkata's Tridibnagar village for nearly 36 hours as of February 8, 2026, prompting intensive efforts by the forest department to manage the situation. Officials suspect the big cat is hiding within an under-construction eco-tourism hub near Jharkhali Bazar.

Foresters have deployed nets to cordon off the suspected area, separating it from nearby human settlements. This measure is crucial as the tiger's current location offers little opportunity for a self-initiated return to the forest. This is likely the same tiger that previously strayed into Deulbari village about ten months ago.

Given Jharkhali's role as a tourist transit point and its proximity to the Sundarbans Wild Animal Park (a zoo-cum-rescue centre), the forest department is prioritizing conflict aversion. The Jharkhali zoo was closed to the public on February 7, 2026, to ensure visitor safety. Cages with bait have been set, and tranquilizer teams are on standby for capture.