Intensive Combing Operation Launched to Trap Two Tigers near Birunani, Kodagu

Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna visited the affected areas on Tuesday to assess the progress and interact with both residents and forest officials.

Birunani: Forest authorities in Kodagu district have launched a large-scale operation to capture two tigers that have been repeatedly spotted in Theralu and neighbouring villages, which fall under the Birunani Gram Panchayat. The capture drive, ongoing for the past five days, is being supported by elephants Gopi and Srirama from the Dubare elephant camp.

Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna visited the affected areas on Tuesday to assess the progress and interact with both residents and forest officials. He confirmed that formal approval has been given to trap the big cats, following discussions with Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre.

The operation follows a series of tiger sightings in villages such as Teralu, B. Shettigeri, and Srimangala. Expressing concern over the growing anxiety among residents living close to forest borders, Ponnanna asked the Forest Department to expedite the capture process.

In a bid to improve response time and coordination, local forest officers suggested forming a WhatsApp group that includes residents, Gram Panchayat officials, and forest personnel. The group would serve as a communication platform to circulate live updates on tiger sightings.

Senior forest official Jagannath revealed that surveillance teams are monitoring tiger activity in the region between Iruppu and Kotiyalu. Several base camps have been set up for tracking the animals’ movements.

MLA Ponnanna pointed out that Teralu is part of the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, stressing that the protection of villagers near forested zones must remain a top priority. He also called for a compassionate approach while dealing with marginalised tribal and economically weaker communities residing in these vulnerable regions.

Deputy Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Nehru said that more than 60 forest staff and officers have been mobilised for the intensive combing operation.

Birunani Gram Panchayat President Rajesh highlighted the fear that continues to grip the community due to repeated encounters not only with tigers but also elephants. He urged the government to find a long-term resolution to the recurring human-animal conflict in the area.

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