Karnataka Govt Mulls measures to direct elephants back to their natural habitats

Mangaluru: Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has committed to implementing measures to direct elephants back to their natural habitats, following concerns raised by Sullia MLA Bhagirathi Murulya.

Frequent sightings of elephants from the forest have become common in villages such as Aithuru, Konaje, Subrahmanya, and adjacent areas situated near the Western Ghats. The residents' concerns primarily revolve around the elephants causing damage to their crops and posing potential threats to their lives. Despite efforts by the local authorities to deter the elephants, the issue persists.

In response to these pressing concerns, MLA Bhagirathi Murulya met Forest and Ecology Minister Eshwar Khandre and submitted a memorandum outlining the gravity of the situation.

In response, Minister Khandre offered his commitment to instruct officials concerned to take the necessary actions to guide the wild elephants back into the forest. He also assured to implement measures to prevent their ingress into populated areas.

Highlighting the decreased rainfall as a contributing factor, the Minister noted that  scarcity of rainfall compels elephants to venture into villages in search of food and water.

He said that prioritizing Rail Barricading was the sole remedy for this issue.
Minister Khandre said that he has instructed officials to ensure that elephants have access to adequate water and food in their natural habitats.