Kodagu human-wildlife conflict: Forest Minister to meet affected people

Kodagu Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy is set to visit the district on August 28 to address the growing concerns over human-wildlife conflict. Political Secretary and Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna announced that the Minister would engage with local residents and affected individuals, discussing potential solutions to the issue. Recently, two elephants were captured during operations, but releasing them back into the forest could lead to their return to plantations, necessitating a more comprehensive management strategy.

Currently, Kodagu has elephant camps at Dubare and Mathigodu, and the captured elephants have been relocated to Dubare. Ponnanna suggested increasing the number of kraals at the camp and strengthening facilities. He also proposed the "soft release" of elephants, a concept previously suggested by another Forest Minister. The government will evaluate the proposal's feasibility.

To curb elephant intrusion into human settlements and plantations, measures like railway barricades, trenches, and solar fencing are being implemented gradually. Translocation of elephants to areas with lower elephant populations is another potential option. Despite Project Elephant's existence, Kodagu has not received any funds under the scheme.

Ponnanna urged political parties to unite in finding a solution, suggesting that Opposition leaders should meet Union Ministers to address the matter rather than engaging in protests.