Madikeri: Foresters in Kodagu encountered a tense situation on Saturday when a herd of wild elephants charged at them during an operation to drive the animals out of coffee estates in Guhya village.
At the commencement of the operation, the elephants became aggressive and attacked the team, compelling forest staff to temporarily retreat. The drive was initiated following persistent complaints from villagers about elephants straying into coffee plantations in Guhya and nearby Nellihudikeri villages. Forest department officials and personnel conducted the operation from Saturday morning until evening.
During the exercise, the herd split into smaller groups and moved across plantations, complicating the task. While some elephants were pushed back, several remained inside the estates, particularly around Guhya village and along the riverbanks of Nellihudikeri. Officials reported that the herd comprised over 21 elephants, including five calves. Despite sustained efforts, many of the animals were reluctant to return to the forest.
The operation highlights the ongoing human-elephant conflict in the region, as elephants frequently venture into agricultural areas in search of food. Forest officials continue to monitor the situation and plan further measures to ensure the safety of both villagers and wildlife.
