Activists and members of Bannerghatta Conservation Trust have again petitioned the Supreme Court over increasing encroachments and civil works in and around BNP.
In the early hours of Friday, 55-year-old Hakki Pikki tribal Chikkamadaiah, who worked as a watcher, died in an elephant attack.
Recent Incidents
In the past week, three people have been killed in Bannerghatta National Park (BNP) due to elephant attacks. These incidents highlight the increasing human-wildlife conflict in the area. On Friday, 55-year-old Chikkamadaiah, a watcher, was killed by a wild elephant near Dodda Bande in Bannerghatta range. Earlier, on July 10 and July 6, two other villagers, Suresh (45) and a 38-year-old farmer, were found dead in the Kodihalli range, suspected to have been killed by a wandering tusker.
Government and Official Responses
Forest, Environment, and Ecology Minister Eshwar B Khandre and senior forest officials visited the families of the victims. Khandre announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh to each family and a job for a family member on compassionate grounds. BNP Deputy Conservator of Forests Prabhakar Priyadarshi praised Chikkamadaiah, noting his 25 years of dedicated service.
Challenges and Solutions
The number of elephants in BNP has increased, with the population sometimes swelling to 220 due to cross-border movement from Tamil Nadu and nearby forest ranges. The increase in human activity, encroachment, and civil works has exacerbated the conflict. Officials have admitted a shortage of funds for creating rail barricades and replacing old barriers, as well as a lack of ground staff. Technological interventions and enhanced security measures for staffers on night duty are being considered.
Activists’ Actions
Activists from the Bannerghatta Conservation Trust have petitioned the Supreme Court regarding the encroachments and civil works in BNP. Despite a previous letter to PM Modi highlighting the issues, no significant action has been taken.