World Environment Day Special: Tadoba tiger cub with cement bag sparks conservation concerns

Royal Bengal Tiger cub carrying a discarded cement bag in its jaws inside Tadoba Tiger Reserve

A Royal Bengal tiger cub carrying a discarded cement bag in its jaws inside the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) has triggered concern among wildlife conservationists, who say the incident highlights the growing threat posed by human waste and construction debris in protected forest areas.

The unusual sight was captured by photojournalist and wildlife enthusiast Pradeep Dhivar during a safari in the reserve. While the image initially drew attention because of its rarity, experts say it points to a larger problem of garbage finding its way into critical wildlife habitats.

Not the first such incident

According to Kedar Gore, a similar incident was reported a few years ago when a tiger was photographed carrying a discarded plastic water bottle inside the reserve. Experts say repeated instances suggest that littering remains an unresolved issue in and around wildlife habitats.

What conservationists want

Kedar Gore called for a zero-tolerance approach towards littering and improper waste disposal inside forest areas. "There should be a no-tolerance policy for such callous behaviour, and such incidents must be dealt with the strictest action. It is the responsibility of the contractor to collect and carry back all trash from the forest area. The forest department must strictly ensure that this is followed so that the forests remain free of garbage at all times." He added, "The labourers engaged by the contractors to do various maintenance-related works in forest areas need to be properly oriented towards such issues."

What happened?

According to Pradeep Dhivar, forest-related construction work was underway in the area when he noticed movement in nearby vegetation.

Moments later, a tiger cub emerged from the bushes.

To his surprise, the cub picked up a discarded cement bag in its mouth and carried it back into the vegetation.

Dhivar quickly photographed the scene before the animal disappeared from view.

Why experts are concerned

Conservationists say the incident raises questions about waste management practices during maintenance and construction activities carried out inside protected forests.

Potential risks include:
>> Animals accidentally swallowing plastic
>> Birds, reptiles and mammals are getting entangled in waste
>> Suffocation or injury caused by non-biodegradable litter
>> Long-term pollution of wildlife habitats