In Shivamogga, wild elephants from the Bhadra reserved forest are wreaking havoc on local agriculture by frequently raiding and destroying crops. Villages surrounding the Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary, including Puradal, Belur, Male Shankara, Hasuru, and Sirigere, are experiencing significant agricultural losses due to these persistent attacks.
Initially, the forest department attempted to drive away the elephants using firecrackers, but the nocturnal raids continued unabated. In response to increasing protests from farmers demanding effective action, the department has now enlisted help from staff at the Sakrebilu Elephant Camp and Shettihalli Sanctuary to actively pursue the elephants.
Challenges have arisen due to high water levels in the Tunga River, which create deep backwaters, hindering the elephants’ ability to swim across. The elephants first entered Shivamogga from Chikkamagaluru several months ago when the backwaters receded.
Forest officials are working diligently to manage the situation while prioritizing the safety of both the local communities and the elephants.
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