Bengaluru: The existing passage used by elephants between Kanakapura and Bengaluru should not be considered a proper elephant corridor, according to noted elephant expert Professor Raman Sukumar of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). He has cautioned that the narrow stretch and the proposed elephant overpass could create further challenges for human–elephant coexistence.
Speaking at the Bangalore Conclave on the topic ‘Elephant Landscapes in Transition: Connectivity and Long-Term Coexistence’, Sukumar said elephant populations are increasing and that stronger, scientifically planned corridors are needed to support wildlife movement and reduce conflict with people.
However, he argued that the existing route connecting Kanakapura to Bengaluru is too small to serve as an effective elephant corridor. He also expressed opposition to the construction of an overpass for elephants, warning that such infrastructure could lead to further conflict.
Existing passage is too small, says expert
Sukumar pointed out that the existing passage measures approximately 45 metres in length and 38 metres in width. According to him, a stretch of this size should not be mistaken for a fully functional elephant corridor.
Elephant corridors are important for allowing animals to move between forest habitats. However, their effectiveness depends on the availability of suitable habitat, adequate space and safe movement routes.
Sukumar’s remarks underline the need to assess wildlife infrastructure based on ecological evidence rather than assuming that a physical passage will automatically resolve problems involving elephant movement.
The expert also cautioned against constructing an elephant overpass at the location, arguing that it could contribute to further conflict. His concerns highlight the importance of understanding how elephants use existing landscapes before deciding on interventions.
Rising elephant numbers and human-wildlife conflict
The discussion at the conclave also focused on the growing need to strengthen elephant corridors as elephant populations increase.
Encounters between elephants and people can become dangerous when animals move into agricultural areas or human settlements. Such incidents also raise concerns about the safety of residents and the long-term protection of wildlife.
Referring to the recent death of a 60-year-old man near Rajarajeshwari Medical College, Sukumar said male elephants have been observed straying from forest areas through small patches to raid crops and enter human habitations.
According to him, these movements can contribute to increasing human–elephant conflict. The observations point to the need for a better understanding of elephant behaviour, habitat connectivity and the reasons animals leave forest areas.
The challenge, therefore, is not limited to providing a route for elephants to cross. Conservation planning must also consider whether the surrounding landscape can support their movement without bringing them into frequent contact with people.
Expert calls for clear conservation policies
Sukumar stressed the need for a stringent policy to protect elephant corridors. He also called for scientifically based methods to relocate animals, drawing on lessons from past experiences.
Relocation is a complex conservation measure and needs to be assessed carefully, considering the animals involved, their movement patterns and the suitability of the destination. Decisions based on scientific evidence can help authorities evaluate possible interventions and their consequences.
The expert also suggested identifying agricultural and human habitation areas as no-elephant zones while developing suitable coexistence zones. Such planning would need to balance public safety with the long-term conservation of elephants and their habitats.
His remarks highlight the importance of coordinated planning involving wildlife experts and forest authorities. Infrastructure decisions, habitat protection and conflict mitigation need to be considered together rather than as separate measures.
IISc and Forest Department conduct five-year study
IISc is working with the Forest Department on a five-year landscape study aimed at mitigating human–elephant conflict.
The study is examining several fundamental questions concerning elephant habitats and movement. These include whether elephants have adequate access to fodder and water, where their populations are increasing and whether their migratory routes have been blocked.
Researchers are also assessing which conflict-mitigation measures work best, why elephants may be becoming more aggressive and whether relocating groups of elephants should be considered.
The findings could help improve understanding of the factors influencing elephant movement and interactions with people. Assessing habitat conditions and migration routes is particularly important when deciding which conservation measures are appropriate for a particular landscape.
The study also reflects the need for long-term research to guide decisions on wildlife management, rather than relying solely on individual incidents or isolated infrastructure projects.
Balancing elephant conservation and public safety
The debate over the Kanakapura-Bengaluru stretch highlights a wider challenge in wildlife conservation: ensuring that elephants can move through suitable habitats while reducing the risks faced by people living and working nearby.
Sukumar’s comments suggest that simply creating an overpass or identifying a narrow passage may not be enough to address the underlying causes of human–elephant conflict. Protecting functional corridors, understanding migration patterns and ensuring access to food and water are also important considerations.
The ongoing IISc–Forest Department study is expected to examine these issues through a longer-term landscape approach. Its findings may help authorities identify more effective ways to manage elephant movement and reduce conflict.
The central concern raised at the Bangalore Conclave is that conservation infrastructure must be guided by scientific evidence and a clear understanding of the landscape. Stronger policies, habitat protection and carefully assessed mitigation measures will be essential to improving the chances of long-term coexistence between elephants and people.