A new elephant camp is set to be established near Tanoodi, between Balehonnur and Kalasa in Chikkamagaluru district, as part of efforts to mitigate human-elephant conflicts in the region. Currently, existing elephant camps are located in Bandipur, Sakrebailu, and Dubare, requiring elephants to be brought from these distant locations for assistance in capturing wild elephants, especially amid rising incidents in Mudigere and Aldur.
In response to the escalating conflict, senior forest officials directed the Chikkamagaluru division to identify a suitable location for a new camp. A team of experts reviewed eight potential sites and ultimately shortlisted three, with the final decision made in September to establish the camp near Tanoodi in the Halasuru forest division. This site was selected for its access to a perennial water source, abundant food availability for elephants, and convenient accessibility for transport trucks.
A funding proposal has been submitted to the government, and once approved, the camp will not only help reduce human-elephant conflicts but also promote tourism in the area. The camp will be located near the Bhadra River, ensuring sufficient water supply and food resources. Officials anticipate that this initiative will serve dual purposes of wildlife conservation and tourism enhancement in Chikkamagaluru district.
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