Tigress Zeenat, who had recently caused panic among villagers in Jharkhand and West Bengal, is set to return to the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha on Tuesday night, after escaping from the sanctuary about three weeks ago.

According to Odisha’s Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF), Prem Kumar Jha, the process of retrieving Zeenat from West Bengal has already begun, and she is expected to reach the reserve forest by late evening.

“Zeenat will be released in a specially designed natural enclosure located in the core area of Similipal Tiger Reserve. The enclosure is similar to the one used earlier to house another tigress, Jamuna,” Jha said.

The tigress had been a source of anxiety for villagers during her brief escape, as she ventured into human settlements in Jharkhand and West Bengal, leading to concerns over potential conflicts. The forest department coordinated with officials in the neighboring states to safely capture her and ensure her return to her natural habitat.

Similipal Tiger Reserve, one of India’s premier wildlife habitats, spans over 2,750 square kilometers and is home to several species of flora and fauna, including the critically endangered Royal Bengal Tiger. The reintroduction of Zeenat into her designated enclosure is part of ongoing efforts to protect the tiger population and maintain ecological balance in the reserve.

Authorities have reassured the public that every precaution has been taken to ensure both the safety of the tigress and the surrounding communities. The enclosure is designed to closely replicate Zeenat’s natural habitat while keeping her movements restricted to prevent further escapades.

Further monitoring will be conducted to assess Zeenat’s adjustment to her enclosure and ensure she remains safe within the reserve.