The sharp rise in the population of tigers has been greeted with cheer by all sections of society in the Nilgiris.
However, both officials and conservationists are of the view that no room should be given for complacency.
On the contrary there is a need to step up conservation measures and expedite long pending proposals like expanding the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) where an estimated 90 tigers live.
A view shared by many is that the MTR is one of the best tiger breeding habitats.
Speaking to The Hindu here on Wednesday, the Field Director, MTR, Raguram Singh, said that the credit for the current situation should go to all concerned. He added that the MTR has always been in the forefront of tiger conservation.
Deputy Director, MTR, D. Chandran said that the focus will now be on creating more space for the tigers.
To a question relating to the long standing proposal to merge the Sigur and Singara ranges of The Nilgiris North division with the MTR, he opined that it should be done soon as it will facilitate better management. Describing the increase in population as a heartening development, executive committee member Nilgiri Wildlife and Environment Association (NWEA) K. Vijay said that it calls for advanced methods to keep track of the healthy trend. DNA mapping should be resorted to. The Sigur and Singara ranges and the North Eastern Slopes should be brought under the MTR without delay.
Anti-poaching watchers should be provided with better facilities and modern weapons. All the vacancies should be filled.
Focus should be on habitat improvement. If vegetation like lantana is not removed systematically the prey base will be affected.
Adverting to the death of many tigers in The Nilgiris last year, Mr.Vijay said that lessons should be learnt and suitable preventive measures put in place.
