Bhopal: Van Vihar National Park in Bhopal has welcomed three new tigers, including an adult male rescued from Satpura Tiger Reserve and two cubs from Pench Tiger Reserve. All three animals were deemed unfit to survive independently in the wild due to medical conditions or their habituation to humans. The relocation is part of a controlled conservation and breeding initiative to ensure their safety and well-being.
“Problematic” Satpura Tiger Relocated
The adult male tiger from Satpura had repeatedly entered human settlements, causing alarm among villagers. Despite multiple releases into the core forest area, the tiger showed an unusual comfort level with humans, making it unsafe to remain in the wild. Forest officials decided to permanently house the tiger at Van Vihar, where it can live safely under controlled conditions.
Pench Cubs Rescued and Treated
Two tiger cubs from Pench were also brought to Van Vihar. One cub suffered from a severe rectal prolapse, likely caused by an animal attack. After successful surgery, the cub still lacked the ability to hunt and survive independently. The second cub, found in Turiya village, was separated from its mother and weakened by injuries. Despite treatment, it could not fend for itself in the wild. Both cubs now have a safe environment at Van Vihar.
Van Vihar: A Safe Haven for Tigers
With the addition of these three tigers, Van Vihar now houses 14 tigers and tigresses, emerging as the largest tiger rescue and rehabilitation center in Central India. The park provides food, medical care, and constant supervision for tigers unable to return to their natural habitats. For animals accustomed to humans or injured in attacks, Van Vihar offers a secure “second home” where they can thrive.
Forest officials emphasize that tigers comfortable around humans face increased risks in the wild, making such controlled environments essential for their safety and conservation.
