Former MLA Calls for Urgent Action on Elephant-Human Clashes in Karnataka
Former MLA HM Vishwanath has made a strong appeal to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He wants the government to set aside Rs 500 crore. This money would help reduce the dangerous conflict between humans and elephants in the Western Ghats region.
Permanent Solution Through Sanctuaries
Vishwanath believes creating elephant sanctuaries is the key. He suggests building them in every district of the Malnad area. This region suffers from frequent and severe human-elephant conflicts. Such sanctuaries could offer a lasting fix to this persistent problem.
"Around 90 people have already lost their lives because of these conflicts," Vishwanath stated. He pleaded with the government, "Do not allow any more deaths to occur." He emphasized that mitigating this issue is not an impossible task.
Learning from Sri Lanka's Experience
The former MLA recently visited Sri Lanka. He conducted a study tour there to observe their elephant management methods. Based on his findings, he insists that Karnataka needs scientific and long-term strategies.
He specifically advocates for adopting Sri Lanka's Colombo-model elephant sanctuary. In Colombo, authorities opened a sanctuary capable of housing 200 wild elephants. They are also developing the site as a tourist attraction. This approach generates revenue for the government.
Vishwanath proposes a similar model for Karnataka. He recommends using 400 acres along a riverbank. This land could rehabilitate wild elephants effectively.
Current Elephant Population and Movements
According to Vishwanath's assessment, approximately 7,000 elephants live in the state's forests. However, only about 300 of them cause disturbances in villages. The problem is getting worse as elephants from other districts start entering Hassan.
Sources report that in just one month, 10 to 12 elephants moved into Hassan from Kodagu and Bhadra forests. Currently, the Belur region of Hassan district hosts 60 to 70 elephants. The Alur area has about 10 elephants.
More than 100 elephants roam the Yesalur and Bisle Ghat areas of the Western Ghats. Elephants from Belur sometimes travel to Chikkamagaluru district. They later return to Bikkodu Hobli in Belur taluk.
Meanwhile, elephants from Yesalur and Bisle Ghat areas move through Sullia, Subrahmanya, Belthangady, and Charmadi areas of Dakshina Kannada district. They also enter Kodagu district. This widespread movement increases the risk of conflicts with local communities.
Vishwanath's request highlights the urgent need for government intervention. He stresses that proactive measures can save lives and protect both humans and elephants.
