A 36-year-old crab hunter was killed by a tiger in the Baithabhangi forest of the Sunderbans on Thursday morning.

Barnadhar Mondal hailed from Baikanthapur in Maipith, South 24-Parganas.

The incident once again highlighted the risks faced by villagers venturing into tiger territory for survival in the absence of viable means of alternative earnings.

According to police and local sources, Mondal and four friends had entered the forest early in the morning to set crab traps during low tide. Around 9am, an adult tiger leapt onto their boat from behind, attacking Mondal and attempting to drag him into the forest.

His companions fought back with bamboo sticks, eventually forcing the tiger to retreat. However, Mondal suffered severe injuries to the head and neck, causing excessive blood loss. Despite the friends’ efforts to rush him to Kultali Rural Hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.

Crab hunting in the Sunderbans is a high-risk yet lucrative activity, with crabs often fetching prices of ₹1,200 to ₹1,500 per kilogram. Many residents are forced into the dangerous trade by economic hardship and dwindling means of livelihood.

“The tiger attacked Tapas suddenly from behind while he was setting traps,” said Sankar Mondal, one of his companions. “It was dragging him into the forest, but we risked our lives to save him. Unfortunately, his injuries were too severe, and we couldn’t save him.”

Forest department officers have expressed concern over the recurring incidents of tiger attacks on crab hunters and fishermen in the Sunderbans, particularly within the tiger reserve.

Despite repeated warnings and awareness campaigns, unauthorised entry into the dangerous zones continues.

“It is deeply unfortunate that people risk their lives by entering tiger habitats,” said a forester. “We have issued numerous warnings, but the economic reality compels them to take these risks.”

Residents of the Sunderbans face limited livelihood options, with many turning to crab hunting as a last resort.

“Fishing no longer brings in much income because of increased salinity, and farming jobs provide very little,” explained crab hunter Sankar Mondal, who accompanied the victim during the fateful venture.

“Crab hunting, though risky, offers a chance to earn decent money,” he said.

Ashim Gayen, who leads the Sunderbans Tiger Widow Welfare Society in Gosaba, said: “The region’s poverty leaves people with few alternatives. Many families depend on crab hunting for survival, despite the risks involved.”

In response to the tragedy, Kultali block development officer Suchandan Baidya visited the victim’s family and provided cash assistance as immediate relief. However, local activists stress the need for sustainable livelihood programs to reduce dependence on high-risk activities like crab hunting.

Panic gripped the Madhyagurguria area of ​​Kultali in South 24-Parganas since Wednesday night after some residents reportedly saw a Bengal tiger.

Forest officers have rushed in and are guarding the area. They are also trying to drive away the tiger from the locality by lighting a fire.