Tiger fear grips villages in Salyan as human–wildlife conflict escalates

Growing incidents of tiger attacks linked to the spread of wildlife from Banke National Park have left residents of Kalimati Rural Municipality in Salyan living in fear. Communities in wards 6 and 7, say attacks by Royal Bengal tigers have increased in recent months.

According to local reports, three people have lost their lives in tiger attacks. Several livestock losses have also been recorded. Residents of the buffer zone say they feel unsafe and are demanding stronger protection measures from authorities.

In response, the District Federation of Community Forest Users Nepal, Salyan, organized an interaction and protest program. Participants called for effective steps to ensure human safety. Some locals even demanded that the buffer zone status be revoked if security cannot be guaranteed.

Local leaders have urged the government to take responsibility for protecting citizens living near national parks. They also stressed the need for long-term solutions, including better wildlife management and possible legal reforms.

Residents say children are now afraid to walk to school. Community members have warned that delays in action could lead to further human casualties.