Successful Itikalaphad model can be emulated to attract tigers to Telangana

Forest officials reclaimed 1,700 acres of encroached land at Itikalapahad in Sirpur (T) mandal, restoring it with saplings. The reforested area now serves as a corridor for tigers migrating from Maharashtra, while officials work to prevent human-wildlife conflict

Kumram Bheem Asifabad: Forest officials have successfully reclaimed 1,700 acres of encroached forest land at Itikalapahad village in Sirpur (T) mandal, located on the Telangana–Maharashtra border. The reclaimed land was subsequently reforested with saplings, which have grown into green cover, helping draw migrating tigers from Maharashtra.

The Itikalapahad forest forms a vital corridor for tigers moving between the Tadoba Tiger Reserve in Chandrapur district, Maharashtra, and forests in northern Telangana. Over the last two decades, nearly 2,000 acres of this corridor had been encroached upon by non-tribals practicing podu (shifting) cultivation.

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Forest officials managed to recover 1,700 acres in phases, 1,000 acres earlier, 200 acres in 2024, and 500 acres in 2025. The reforestation efforts led to the growth of various tree species, eventually restoring the forest’s natural appeal for tigers.

“The restoration of this corridor played a crucial role in attracting migrating tigers from Maharashtra. This model can be replicated in other areas for effective tiger conservation, especially since Telangana regularly witnesses tiger movement from Tadoba,” a senior official said.

Camera traps have been installed at entry points to track tiger movement, while forest staff are deployed to ensure the safe passage of tigers and to prevent human-wildlife conflict.

On December 24, a pair of tigers was sighted near a stream at Itikalapahad, with staff reporting roars and tree scratches, typical signs of territory marking by a male tiger. They suspect a male and female tiger are currently residing in the area.

However, the growing tiger presence has also led to human-wildlife conflicts. On November 29, a tiger mauled Morle Laxmi (21) to death while she was harvesting cotton at Easgaon village in Kagaznagar mandal. The same tiger is suspected to have attacked Rauthu Suresh at Dubbagudem village on November 30, triggering fear among locals and farmers.