A tragic incident took place in Kalusadarahalli village, Arsikere taluk, on Monday morning, where three bears died due to electrocution. The bears, aged six-seven years (male), six-seven years (female), and one year (cub), were killed instantly after coming into contact with a broken live wire.
The bears had wandered out of the forest in search of food and were crossing a farmer’s field when they stumbled upon the live wire. Ironically, their deaths saved the lives of farmers who would have otherwise been unaware of the wire.
Locals discovered the bodies and were overcome with grief, realizing an entire bear family had perished. Forest department officials rushed to the scene, conducted a post-mortem examination, and performed the last rites.
This incident highlights the urgent need for measures to prevent such accidents and ensure the safety of both humans and wildlife.
Arsikere MLA K.M. Shivalingegowda criticized the forest department’s negligence. He emphasized that wild animals venture out of the forest due to lack of food and urged officials to ensure availability of food and water inside the forest. Shivalingegowda had previously highlighted the need for water facilities for bears and facilitated check dam construction. Despite this, the tragic incident occurred, underscoring the department’s inaction.
