Elephants Damage Crops, Property in Kadanga Marur, Kodagu; Forest Department Steps In

According to villagers, the elephants have destroyed coffee plants, banana crops, and other vegetation across multiple estates.

Virajpet (Kodagu): Panic has gripped residents of Kadanga Marur village in Virajpet taluk after two wild elephants strayed into coffee estates and surrounding areas over the past two days, damaging crops and property.

According to villagers, the elephants have destroyed coffee plants, banana crops, and other vegetation across multiple estates. Properties owned by families such as Ballachanda, Kunjira, Baltikalanda, and Kangira have been affected, with significant losses reported.

In one of the incidents, the main gate leading to the house and estate of Ballachanda K. Ponnanna was severely damaged. Residents said the destruction has not only caused financial losses but also heightened fear among families, who are worried about their safety as the elephants continue to roam nearby.

Native of the village, Ballachanda Darshan Devaiah, took up the issue with the office of Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre and also contacted Virajpet Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) Jagannath, seeking immediate intervention.

Following the complaint by Mr Darshan Devaiah, the Forest Department deployed additional personnel to the area. Teams carried out operations, including bursting crackers, to drive the elephants back towards the forest.

Confirming the action, DCF Jagannath said, “I have directed the Range Forest Officer to take immediate action. A team of officials has been deployed, and operations are under way to safely drive the elephants back into the forest.”

Officials said the elephants were still in the vicinity as of the latest update, and continuous efforts are being made to contain the situation.

“We are taking all necessary steps to ensure the elephants return to their natural habitat at the earliest. Residents are advised to remain cautious, avoid venturing out alone, and immediately inform authorities of any movement,” an official added.

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