A tiger sighting near a home in Saural village’s Darjiyadhod hamlet has renewed fear among residents of Almora’s Salt development block. Heeraram, a person who cannot speak and lives alone, reportedly saw the animal about 200 metres away on Tuesday morning.

The tiger appeared to move towards him, leaving Heeraram unable to call out for assistance. He made unclear sounds and ran towards his neighbour Baliram. Hearing the noise and recognising his distress, Baliram came outside with a stick and moved towards him while shouting.

Baliram said he also saw the tiger when he reached the area. The animal turned away after residents began making loud noises and moved towards the Shivadi hamlet. People there were alerted by mobile phone so they could take precautions.

Residents raise the alarm

Bharat, who lives some distance away, heard the commotion and came outside with his family. They joined other residents in making noise. Villagers later reported seeing the tiger moving in the direction of Shivadi.

Residents said Heeraram lives by himself at his house in Darjiyadhod. They feared the situation could have become more serious if nearby people had not heard his sounds and reached him in time.

The incident was reported to Bharat Bisht, the village head’s representative. He informed forest officials and staff, who visited the area during the day to inspect the reported sighting.

Forest team issues safety advice

The forest team patrolled Darjiyadhod and nearby areas, including Godi, Kholyodhar, Dana-Pani, Totam, Saural, Jeewalkhal and Chauream. Officials also spoke to residents about precautions around homes and during travel.

Residents were advised to keep sufficient lighting around their houses and clear vegetation near residential areas. Women and schoolchildren going towards forest areas were asked to travel in groups.

The department also advised people not to go outside at night unless necessary. Residents were told not to leave domestic cattle tied in open areas.

Demand for action grows

The latest sighting has brought back anxiety in Darjiyadhod and adjoining hamlets. Residents said tigers had previously been involved in fatal incidents in the area, and they want the animal captured and sent to a rescue centre.

Bharat Bisht sent a group message to members of the village assembly, urging them to remain alert. Residents said the tiger’s presence had made people reluctant to leave their homes.

No injury or death was reported in the incident described. The forest department’s immediate response has focused on inspection, patrolling and public safety guidance.

Conclusion

The reported tiger sighting near Heeraram’s home has heightened concern in Saural village, while forest officials continue local patrols and urge residents to use group travel, lighting and nighttime caution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Where was the tiger seen?

The tiger was seen near Darjiyadhod hamlet in Saural village, within Almora’s Salt development block.

Q. How far was the tiger from Heeraram?

It was reported to be about 200 metres away.

Q. Why could Heeraram not call for help?

Heeraram cannot speak and therefore could not call out. He made unclear sounds before running towards a neighbour.

Q. Who helped Heeraram?

His neighbour Baliram responded after hearing the sounds, picked up a stick and shouted as he approached.

Q. Where did the tiger go?

Residents reported that it moved towards Shivadi hamlet after people made loud noises.

Q. Did forest officials visit the area?

Yes. A forest team inspected the reported location and patrolled Darjiyadhod and nearby areas.

Q. What precautions were residents given?

They were advised to keep homes well lit, clear nearby vegetation, travel in groups towards forest areas and avoid unnecessary movement outside at night.

Q. What action are villagers requesting?

Residents want the tiger captured and sent to a rescue centre.