Karnataka's Bold Steps to Mitigate Elephant-Human Conflict

In response to recent tragic elephant attacks in Chikkamagaluru district, Karnataka's Forest Minister Ishwar B. Khandre has issued directives for senior officials to intensify efforts in managing human-wildlife conflicts. Emphasizing the protection of human lives and agricultural lands, he instructed officials to implement effective and timely interventions.

Minister Khandre highlighted the urgency of returning elephants to their natural habitats. With Karnataka experiencing abundant rainfall, he urged authorities to assess why elephants venture into human settlements despite natural resources in the forest. The minister has called for immediate actions as soon as elephants are sighted, alongside informing local residents and ensuring their safety.

Khandre stressed the importance of infrastructure maintenance, citing issues with blocked elephant trenches and defunct fencing due to heavy rains. Immediate repairs and vigilant monitoring by forest patrols are prioritized to prevent further conflicts. Additionally, new railway barricades are to be constructed, reflecting an increase in elephant-related incidents.

The minister also advocated for comprehensive studies to understand the expanding conflict and recommended the establishment of a command center. With the use of advanced technology, this center aims to issue timely alerts to those near affected areas. Regular communication with Chief Wildlife Wardens is essential to strategize effective conflict management.

Further, Minister Khandre addressed the timely payment of remunerations to frontline staff, warning of accountability on delays. In a virtual meeting with forest officials, the emphasis remained on proactive measures to safeguard human and wildlife coexistence, ensuring timely intervention, and maintaining harmony between communities and nature.

(With inputs from agencies.)