Tag Archives: Wildlife of Coorg

Curbing human-wildlife conflict: ‘Gandhada Gudi’ model elephant sanctuary in Kodagu on cards

Nature, Records, All, Travel, Tourism & Homestays (wef. Oct 03rd, 2021), , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Madikeri:

The longstanding human-elephant conflict in Kodagu has intensified over the decades, with elephant attacks claiming 33 lives in recent years.

Additionally, 53 people are grappling with various issues, including permanent disabilities. Despite continuous efforts by the Forest Department, the menace of wild elephants continues to escalate.

In response, the State Government is gearing up to establish an elephant sanctuary in Kodagu, drawing inspiration from the movie ‘Gandhada Gudi.’ The initiative aims to protect elephants while reducing inconvenience to the local population.

The intention is to strike a balance between wildlife conservation and the safety of local communities for a peaceful coexistence.

To facilitate this, 2,000 hectares of land have been identified in Kodagu, as part of a broader plan covering 12,000 hectares across the State. This land will be used to relocate elephants residing in human settlements back into the forest.

The plan also involves identifying elephants responsible for crop damage and human casualties and relocating them to the sanctuary. The Government intends to provide shelter for around 200 elephants that have settled in rural areas of the district.

During a State Wildlife Board meeting in January, attended by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre, Forest Department officials and Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna, the relocation of rogue elephants was discussed.

The Government agreed to identify safe areas for this purpose and preparations are now underway. The sanctuary will be equipped with technology to monitor and control the elephants, preventing them from straying back into villages.

Since 2014, the Government has allocated Rs. 21 crore for repairing fences and railway barricades in the Virajpet forest range, covering Ponnampet and Virajpet taluks. This measure is part of a long-term solution to the human-elephant conflict.

Additionally, Rs. 4.72 crore have been swiftly disbursed as compensation to those affected by wild animals and Rs. 22 crore have been allocated for new railway barricades, with installation set to begin soon.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / Februaryf 23rd, 2025

Summer hits Karnataka’s Coorg: Wildlife enter cities in search of water in Kushalanagar taluk

Agriculture, Business & Economy, Green Initiatives / Environment, Nature, Travel, Tourism & Homestays (wef. Oct 03rd, 2021), , , , , , , , ,

Coorg district, Karnataka, famed for its greenery, faces severe water scarcity. Kushalanagar taluk, hit hardest, endanger both humans and wildlife. Shrinking water sources force wild animals into villages, disrupting livelihoods. Forest officer Ratan Kumar highlights the need for contingency plans amid the crisis.

Summer hits Karnataka's Coorg: Wildlife enter cities in search of water in Kushalanagar taluk vkp

Coorg district in Karnataka, renowned for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife, is currently grappling with a severe water crisis. As the region experiences a prolonged dry spell, both human inhabitants and wild animals are facing acute shortages of drinking water.

Kushalanagar taluk, In particular, nestled amidst semi-mountainous terrain, has been hit hard by the relentless absence of rainfall. The dire situation has led to concerns not only for the local populace but also for the myriad species of wildlife inhabiting the area.

Covering a vast expanse of 24,278.88 hectares, the forests of Kushalanagar Zone, including reserves like Dubare and Anekadu, are home to a rich assortment of animals and birds, including tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and sambar. Traditionally reliant on water sources such as the Kaveri River, Chiklihole Reservoir, and Harangi Reservoir, these creatures now find themselves confronting parched landscapes. The Kaveri River has dwindled to a mere trickle, while the Chiklihole Reservoir stands desiccated, leaving behind barren canals.

Within the forested areas, a handful of lakes remain, albeit with diminishing water levels. The scorching sun, with temperatures averaging between 29 to 30 degrees Celsius, poses a grave threat as it hastens the evaporation of these remaining water bodies.

The repercussions of this water scarcity extend beyond the confines of the forests. With wild animals compelled to seek sustenance elsewhere, instances of encroachment into nearby villages and coffee plantations have surged. Farmers, reliant on these plantations for their livelihoods, now face disruptions in their daily activities, compounded by labour shortages as workers are deterred by the unpredictable presence of wild animals.

Responding to inquiries, Ratan Kumar, the Forest Officer for Kushalanagar Zone, maintains that there is no immediate shortage of water within his jurisdiction. However, he acknowledges the pressing need for contingency plans should the situation worsen.

source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com / Asianet Newsable / Home> English News> Karnataka / by Vinay Kumar Patil / February 20th, 2024