Karnataka’s Minister for Forests, Ecology, and Environment, Eshwar B. Khandre, declared on Monday that the state would soon see the formation of a dedicated task force to manage the escalating human-wildlife conflicts.
The announcement came after a crucial meeting in Bandipur, prompted by recent tragic tiger attacks in Saragur. These incidents, which occurred within a mere ten days, resulted in the death of one farmer and left another critically injured, currently fighting for his life in a Mysuru hospital.
Minister Khandre explained that this new state-level task force would be a collaborative effort, bringing together local community representatives, non-governmental organizations, and environmental experts. Its core mission will involve extensive educational and awareness campaigns, particularly aimed at sensitizing communities living near forest perimeters about crucial preventive measures to mitigate conflicts. The task force plans to engage with schools in these areas, educating students about local wildlife and fostering a harmonious relationship between the forest department and village residents.
Addressing immediate concerns, the Minister instructed officials and local authorities to enforce prohibitory orders during wildlife combing operations. This measure is vital to prevent large crowds from gathering, as their presence not only endangers them but also obstructs the operations.
He further emphasized the critical need for timely communication regarding wild animal sightings. Villagers should be alerted through loudspeakers when elephants or tigers venture into residential zones, and this vital information must also be broadly disseminated via social media for maximum reach.
To facilitate this, a state-of-the-art command center will be established, equipped with thermal cameras and drones for continuous monitoring of wild animal movements. WhatsApp messages will also be promptly sent to residents upon any sighting of wildlife near villages, a measure Khandre urged for immediate implementation.
Highlighting the importance of proactive protection, Mr. Khandre called for increased foot patrolling in known conflict areas to prevent injuries and crop damage. To address ongoing staff shortages, officials were directed to expedite recruitment processes and explore options for outsourcing frontline personnel.
Chief Wildlife Warden P.C. Rai was tasked with submitting a five-day report outlining effective strategies to prevent elephants and tigers from straying out of forests. Officials were also instructed to implement tentacle fencing, solar fencing, and elephant-proof trenches where necessary, complementing the existing rail barricades in human-elephant conflict hotspots.
Finally, Mr. Khandre acknowledged farmers’ concerns that an increase in wildlife safaris and forest disturbances might be contributing to the rise in conflicts, stating that he would discuss this issue further with relevant officials.
The meeting saw the presence of MLAs Anil Chikkamadu and Ganesh Prasad, Principal Secretary Manoj Kumar, APCCF Manor Rajan, Chamarajanagar Deputy Commissioner Shilpa Nag, and SP Kavitha, among other dignitaries.