Viral visuals showing deer and stray dogs scavenging plastic waste at Kuvempu University’s Jnana Sahyadri campus have triggered fresh concern over poor waste management in the buffer zone of Bhadra Tiger Reserve. The campus, located within the Singhanamane State Forest, has come under scrutiny after the video contradicted official claims of a fully functional waste disposal system.

Video contradicts university’s claims

The clip shows deer and stray dogs feeding on garbage on the university campus, raising serious concerns about wildlife health and increasing dependency on human waste. Environmentalist Chirag alleged that food waste from hostels was attracting animals into human-occupied spaces, creating long-term ecological and safety risks.

However, university public relations officer Dr MR Sathyaprakash told the media that Kuvempu University has a comprehensive waste management system in place and that hostels do not discharge food waste. He claimed the litter visible on campus largely consists of snack wrappers discarded by passers-by.

Wildlife straying into public spaces

Despite these assurances, waste accumulation continues to be reported across the area. Recently, a deer chased by stray dogs ran into a cooperative bank branch near the university gate, causing panic before forest officials rescued the animal. Such incidents have intensified fears about increasing human–wildlife conflict.

Buffer zone under pressure

The core area of Bhadra Tiger Reserve covers about 500.1 sq km, while the buffer and peripheral zones extend over 571.8 sq km. Large stretches of the buffer, particularly between Singhanamane and Tammadihalli, are reportedly littered with waste. Forest staff routinely clear rubbish, but officials say poor waste management by local gram panchayats along highways remains a major challenge.

Authorities step in

Pulkit Meena, Director of Bhadra Tiger Reserve, confirmed frequent wildlife movement on the campus and said the forest department is in constant coordination with university authorities. He also stated that a notice has been issued and illegal construction of a resort by an influential leader in Kolagave village — located within the buffer zone — has been stopped.

The issue was raised in the legislature by DS Arun, adding political weight to growing environmental concerns.