The Elephant Task Force (ETF) in Hassan district has received a significant boost to its field operations with the addition of 13 new vehicles, thanks to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The ETF plays a crucial role in mitigating the ongoing human-elephant conflict in the region.
New Vehicles for Enhanced Operations
The newly acquired fleet includes three SUVs and 10 bikes, which will enable more effective patrolling and rapid response in conflict-prone areas. Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre flagged off these vehicles in Bengaluru. With this addition, the ETF now has a total of 16 four-wheelers and 10 bikes dedicated to routine patrol and monitoring of wild elephant movements.
Advanced Equipment for Better Coordination
All vehicles are equipped with Public Address System (PAS) devices, including walkie-talkies and loudspeakers, to improve coordination among team members, facilitate patrolling along forest borders, and alert villagers in vulnerable zones. Officials believe this support will lead to quicker response times and more effective monitoring of elephant movements.
Hassan Chief Conservator of Forests V Yedukondalu stated, "Monitoring elephants and ensuring the safety of villagers will now be more effective. The two-wheelers allow foresters to access difficult terrains and remote areas with ease. The bikes are also fitted with PAS, making it simpler to relay messages."
ETF's Role and Workforce
The ETF is responsible for tracking wild elephant movements, coordinating between headquarters and the state control room, and driving elephants back into the forest. The unit currently employs 140 daily wage staff and 15 permanent workers. It is headed by a Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF)-grade officer and includes an Assistant Conservator of Forests and a Range Forest Officer. However, the posts of DCF and RFO are currently vacant.
Since the ETF's inception, the workload on territorial forest personnel has significantly decreased, making elephant monitoring easier. The department regularly trains ETF staff and ensures their safety. With sufficient manpower and vehicles now in place, officers are optimistic that the conflict will be minimized.
