Keonjhar, Oct 22: Panic has gripped several villages in Keonjhar district after signs of a Royal Bengal tiger were detected in the Ghatagaon forest range. According to forest officials, fresh pugmarks believed to belong to a tiger were discovered in the Barabanka forest area under the Balipokhari beat.

Following the sighting, the Forest Department has installed camera traps in the jungle to monitor and track the movement of the big cat. While an official confirmation on the tiger’s presence is awaited, the evidence has raised concerns among residents of nearby villages, including Kolimati, Dudhianala, and Balipokhari.

Local villagers have expressed fear over potential encounters, and many are avoiding forest routes. In response, the Ghatagaon Forest Division has issued a public advisory, urging people to stay alert and refrain from venturing into the forest until further notice.

Efforts are underway to confirm the tiger’s identity and ensure the safety of both villagers and wildlife.