38% Wildlife Conflict Deaths Reported From Kodagu

Bengaluru:/Madikeri: With 38% of deaths due to human–wildlife conflict in Karnataka reported from Kodagu district, Forest Minister Eshwar B. Khandre has issued a series of urgent directions to mitigate the growing crisis, particularly human–elephant conflict in the region.

At a recent review meeting held in Bengaluru with Kodagu MLAs A.S. Ponnanna and Mantar Gowda, along with Nanjangud MLA Darshan Dhruvanarayan and senior forest officials, the Minister stressed the need for immediate repair and upkeep of existing mitigation infrastructure. He directed officials to complete maintenance of 422 km of elephant trenches and 544 km of hanging solar-powered fences within a month.

Expressing concern over rising fatalities, Khandre called for intensified patrolling and strengthening of frontline response mechanisms. He said the elephant task force, rapid response teams, and other conflict mitigation units must be reinforced to ensure quicker and more effective action on the ground.

To improve response time, four additional vehicles have already been procured, supplementing the existing fleet of six. The Minister also approved the procurement of four more vehicles and suggested engaging local youth on an outsourced basis to support field operations and enhance coordination.

Highlighting the importance of communication, Khandre instructed officials to establish a robust wireless network to track wildlife movement and curb illegal activities such as tree felling and poaching. He also emphasised the need to collect data on plantation workers across Kodagu and to develop a real-time alert system using WhatsApp and public address systems mounted on vehicles to warn people when elephants approach human settlements.

With an intense summer expected between late March and May, the Minister directed officials to ensure adequate availability of water and fodder within forests to prevent animals from straying into human habitats. He also called for regular updates to the public on water levels in forest areas.

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