Chikkamagaluru: A herd of elephants is camping near Chikkamagaluru town, causing distress among local residents.
The group, which broke away from Beetamma-1, Beetamma-2, and Bhuvaneshwari, has positioned themselves behind Serai Resorts, adjacent to Chikkamagaluru city. They travelled from Hassan district on Oct 4 and have settled in the area.
According to Chikkamagaluru division deputy conservator of forests (DCF) Ramesh Babu, the herd comprises twenty elephants, including three calves and three tuskers.
The elephants are roaming in the vicinity of Kesavinamane, Bavikatte, Aladagudde, and surrounding areas. The department has implemented necessary precautions, with twenty staff members assigned to track the animals' movements. The officer noted that the absence of radio collars on the elephants poses challenges in monitoring them.
The DCF assured that while the elephants face no threats and are moving freely, they will be prevented from entering populated areas. He confirmed that adequate measures are in place to avoid any conflicts.
Punith, a homestay operator, expressed concerns about ensuring visitor safety due to elephant movements. Despite forest officials' presence in the area, he indicated that movement remains somewhat dangerous.
Coffee planter Venkatesh reported damage to his crops and plants from elephant raids, noting that the animals enter his estate despite fences.
The DCF promised appropriate compensation for losses, acknowledging farmers' difficulties while working to prevent elephants from entering plantations. He reported that approximately sixty elephants are currently present in the Chikkamagaluru division.