Several elephants have died due to electrocution over the years in Mudigere, Kodagu and Hassan
Several elephants have died due to electrocution over the years in Mudigere, Kodagu and Hassan.
Noting that elephant movement is continuous in Sakleshpur, Alur and Belur taluks, environmentalist Hurudi Vikram said the forest and energy departments must take coordinated steps. “Though the issue has been brought to the notice of forest and CESC officials, no action has been taken,” he alleged. As per a high court order, a minimum of nine metres high poles must be installed,” he said. “If such deaths continue, the survival of elephants will become difficult,” Vikram said, adding that the radio-collaring process is flawed. Citing examples of elephants Kanthi and Gundamma, he said tranquilliser drugs have had adverse health effects. As per a Supreme Court order, obstacles in corridors must be removed,” he said.
Hassan : The death of a pregnant elephant after coming into contact with a live wire in Belur taluk, has once again put the spotlight on the lack of preventive measures along elephant corridors in Malnad. Wild elephants migrate from Malnad region to Jabbur every year from Sept, but no precautionary measures are in place to protect them from low-hanging power lines, allege the environmentalists. He pointed out that a pregnant elephant died after coming into contact with a power line a few days ago. “Low-hanging lines along corridors must be raised. “No proper study is conducted before fitting collars — whether the elephant is pregnant or has a milk-dependent calf is not examined. This leads to adverse consequences. “Reusing substandard foreign medicines and radio collars must be stopped. Backdated food should not be given to elephants,” he demanded. “Translocation is not a permanent solution. Elephants will return from Paschima Ghatta, Kodagu, Bhadra and Bannerghatta regions. Protecting migratory routes is the right solution,” he added. Another activist Suresh from Mudigere demanded the removal of obstacles including stone quarrying and resorts along corridors. “Mining in elephant habitats hinders free movement.
Deputy conservator of forests Saurabh Kumar said if any elephant death due to electrocution is found to be caused by lapses of the energy department, officials concerned will be held responsible. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Mysuru | Silver Rate in Mysuru | Bank Holidays in Mysuru | Public Holidays in Mysuru Stay updated with the latest Mysuru news.
Krishnappa from Alur said railway barricades in Alur region are hindering movement and breaking forest connectivity. “Measures must be taken based on scientific study,” he said. CESC officer said the department has identified several vulnerable points, and clearance work will be taken up in the corridors soon. “As per guidelines, power lines should be above 3.5 metres in elephant corridors,” he said.
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