26-05-2025
New tigress replaces Kankati at R'bore fort
Jaipur: Despite the relocation of the young tigress Kankati following two alleged human fatalities, the recurring conflict between tigers and pilgrims at the historic Ranthambore Fort continues to pose significant risks to both public safety and wildlife conservation efforts.
The forest department has often imposed intermittent restrictions on access to the fort, a popular pilgrimage and tourist site, as a precautionary measure following tiger sightings. However, it has yet to implement a permanent solution to this ongoing conflict. Most recently, entry was temporarily banned after the movement of tigress Riddhi was observed within the fort premises. Access was restored on Monday after the forest department ensured that the tiger family was no longer present.
Experts point to an increasing prey base inside the fort as a key factor attracting big cats. Over the years, small shops have sprung up inside the fort, and visitors often offer rituddal food items like chana and prasad, flour to wild animals or leave behind waste. These readily available food sources have attracted herbivores such as langurs and sambar, as well as omnivores like wild boars—creating a prey-rich environment that naturally draws tigers.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Balendu Singh, former Honorary Wildlife Warden, said, "One of the primary reasons the fort has become a hotspot for tigers is the increase in prey species attracted by leftover food and ritual offerings. The ready availability of these food sources is changing the natural habits of wildlife, encouraging them to gather in larger numbers and remain close to human activity. This shift not only disrupts the ecological balance but also increases the risk of human-wildlife conflicts.
Therefore, a strict ban on feeding wild animals inside the fort is essential to preserve both visitor safety and animal welfare."
Dharmendra Khandal, conservation biologist with Tiger Watch, added that structural damage to portions of the fort wall has made it easier for tigers—who are instinctively territorial explorers—to enter.
