Tiger Sighted Near Kaliyasot Dam Again, Movement Within 25 km Radius
A tiger sighting near Bhopal's Kaliyasot Dam has reignited discussions about wildlife activity in urban fringes.

Tiger Spotted Near Kaliyasot Dam, Movement Within 25 km Radius
Bhopal city has once again drawn attention with the sighting of a tiger. A video of an adult tiger crossing a road in the dark near the Kaliasot Dam has surfaced, intensifying discussions about increased wildlife activity in the area. Captured by passersby on mobile cameras, the sight has generated both curiosity and concern among city residents regarding tiger movements.
The approximately 12-minute video, believed to be 5-6 days old and recently released, shows a healthy, fully adult tiger. The footage depicts the tiger crossing the road, pausing briefly, and then slowly disappearing into the bushes.
Kaliyasot-Kerwa Region: A Natural Habitat for Tigers
Wildlife experts believe that the Kaliasot Dam, Chandanpura, Kerwa, and surrounding forests form a significant natural corridor for tigers. According to wildlife enthusiast Rashid Noor, several tigers already inhabit these areas, and their activity has been observed in the Valmi hills. Therefore, the sighting of a tiger in the Kaliasot region is considered a natural occurrence rather than an unusual event.
Tiger Movement Within a 25 km Radius of Bhopal
Experts estimate that tigers are continuously active within an approximately 25-kilometer perimeter around Bhopal city. Besides the forests of Kaliasot and Kerwa, reports of tiger sightings have also emerged from areas like Kolar and Bairasia. Notably, a tiger was also found on the campus of Bhoj University in Choona Bhatti in 2022, highlighting the increasing proximity of wildlife to urban areas.
Approximately 13 Residential Tigers Active
Sources connected to the Forest Department indicate that approximately 13 resident tigers are currently active in the forest areas of Kaliasot, Kerwa, Samardha, Amoni, and Bhanpur. Many of these tigers were born in these areas and have made them their permanent home. The family of tigress T-123 has also been observed roaming in these same regions.
Urban Expansion and Wildlife Conservation
Experts observe that the line between forests and urban expansion in Bhopal is becoming increasingly blurred. Due to the city's rapid growth, wildlife activities are now more visibly apparent. This situation underscores the need for a balanced approach that promotes development while also conserving wildlife and their natural habitats.
