Angul, Oct 2: Just days after tiger pugmarks were detected in the Reamal Forest Range of Deogarh district, new signs of tiger presence have now been reported from the Patakumunda forest under Chhendipada Forest Range in Angul district. The discovery has sparked fresh panic among local residents.

For the past few days, villagers had suspected a tiger’s movement in the area. Their fears deepened after clear pugmark imprints were found. Responding quickly, Forest Department officials visited the site, documented the evidence, and sent the samples for expert analysis to confirm whether they belong to a tiger.

In response to the situation, forest personnel have stepped up surveillance and are conducting awareness drives in nearby villages. Locals have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid risky movements in the forest, and immediately report any further sightings.

Meanwhile, tension persists in Deogarh’s Reamal Forest Range, where pugmarks were spotted near Jharmunda village, close to ‘Babaji Math’, on September 29.

Authorities are keeping both Angul and Deogarh under close watch as part of precautionary and conservation measures to ensure public safety while monitoring the possible movement of the big cat.