Plans underway to relocate 185 elephants from Karnataka's Kodagu conflict zones, says Wildlife Board member

MADIKERI: State Wildlife Board member Sanketh Poovaiah stated that the forest department is planning to relocate 185 elephants, which are in conflict with humans in Kodagu district.During a meeting at Kutta, where the man-wildlife conflict was discussed, he mentioned that the forest department is planning to relocate 185 jumbos from South Kodagu. He stated that the jumbos from Kutta, which borders the state of Kerala, will also be relocated.Villagers expressed their daily struggles with wildlife conflicts and sought lasting solutions. They highlighted a potential elephant corridor through Kutta-Hoovina Kadu, suggesting that clearing this pathway could enable direct elephant movement to Kabini.Poovaiah revealed plans to capture and rehabilitate approximately 185 wild elephants from Kodagu district to a secure rehabilitation facility. He mentioned that MLA and CM’s legal advisor A S Ponnanna initiated discussions with the govt regarding establishing a dedicated elephant rehabilitation centre within the district.Villagers noted the lack of experts in the Rapid Response Team and Elephant Task Force, recommending the formation of an expert team.

Poovaiah confirmed that the MLA already considered this suggestion and implementation was forthcoming. He added that substantial funding for wildlife management was secured, though complete utilisation would require several years.The meeting addressed the rapid increase in the elephant population, emphasizing the need for enhanced poaching prevention and expanded solar fencing in high-risk areas.The gathering included Srimangala range Forest Officer Aravind, former TP member Palvin Poonacha, and leader Mukkatira Naveen Aiyappa.