A joint wildlife operation successfully captured a female tiger that crossed state lines from West Bengal into the forested stretches of Kokrajhar district in Assam. Specialist teams comprising forest personnel and veterinary officers tracked the animal over several days before administering a safe dose of tranquiliser. Kokrajhar district administrative officials confirmed that the rescue concluded smoothly without causing any injury to the animal or surrounding residents.
Journey Across the River Boundary
Seeking an appropriate habitat, the tigress crossed the Sankosh River on October 23 and stepped into the perimeter of Raimona National Park. Continuing her eastward journey through dense terrain, she eventually emerged near the periphery of Gelaguri Village under the Dotma range within Kachugaon Division. Field trackers immediately focused on securing the populated surroundings while maintaining visual surveillance on her movements.
Post-Rescue Medical Attention and Repatriation
Following her immobilisation, the animal was placed under continuous post-tranquilisation veterinary care to monitor her vital signs and stabilization. Forest authorities are coordinating logistics to transport her back to West Bengal, where she will return to Buxa Tiger Reserve.
Conservation Project to Restore Tiger Numbers
The predator was initially introduced into Buxa Tiger Reserve on October 2, 2026, as part of an official strategy to rebuild a thriving resident tiger population. That release occurred in the presence of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari alongside Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav. Soon after release, the tigress began traveling beyond the reserve limits toward neighboring Assam.
Cross-Border Coordination Ensures Safe Outcome
Throughout the pursuit, conservationists balanced public safety with animal welfare. Field teams from Assam and West Bengal maintained close communication, aided by village residents who exhibited vigilance and cooperated fully with forest authorities to bring the multi-day tracking effort to a peaceful close.
