The Karnataka Forest Department is set to conduct an elephant-driving operation on May 23 in the Virajpete Range. The operation aims to manage and drive away wild elephants that have been causing disruption in coffee plantations and nearby areas.
Appeal for Caution
Virajpete Range Forest Officer K V Shivaram has appealed to residents, students, and plantation workers to remain cautious during the operation. He advised the public to avoid venturing into the forest areas and to cooperate with forest officials.
Elephant-human conflicts have been a recurring issue in the region, with wild elephants frequently entering plantations and agricultural lands in search of food. The forest department regularly conducts such operations to mitigate conflicts and ensure the safety of both humans and animals.
Details of the Operation
The operation will involve a team of forest officials, including trained personnel and elephant handlers, who will use non-lethal methods to guide the elephants back into deeper forest areas. The department has also deployed drones and monitoring teams to track elephant movements.
Residents have been asked to report any elephant sightings to the nearest forest office. The department has set up a helpline for emergency assistance during the operation.
Background
Karnataka's coffee-growing regions, particularly in Kodagu and Chikkamagaluru districts, often witness elephant incursions. The forest department has been implementing measures such as elephant-proof trenches, solar fences, and early warning systems to reduce conflicts.
The upcoming operation is part of a broader strategy to maintain ecological balance while protecting livelihoods. Officials emphasized that the operation would be conducted with minimal stress to the animals.
