*Conservation Crisis: Activists Sound Alarm Over Growing Elephant Deaths*
Environmental activists have sounded the alarm over the growing threat to elephants in Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary, following the tragic electrocution death of a young male elephant. The incident occurred on November 5, 2024, in Veeragarana Bairanakoppa, where the elephant had wandered into a cornfield and came into contact with a live wire.
*A Pattern of Negligence and Electrocution Deaths*
This heartbreaking event is not an isolated one. Just two years ago, two male elephants met the same fate in the same range, and the accused escaped punishment by claiming ownership of the land. The repeated instances of elephant deaths and alleged negligence in investigations have raised concerns about the effectiveness of wildlife conservation efforts in the region.
*Call for Action: Activist Nitin Herale’s Demands*
Activist Nitin Herale has written to Forest Minister Eshwar B Khandre, urging immediate action to address the sanctuary’s issues. His demands:
– A comprehensive survey of the sanctuary’s range
– Identification of encroached areas
– Transfer of influential veterinarian Dr. Vinay back to his parent department
– Thorough investigation into irregularities within the Wildlife Division
– Restructuring of the elephant camp
– Proper utilization of vehicles
– Finalization of the buffer zone
– Departmental accountability for farmers electrifying their fields
*A Sanctuary in Peril*
The Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary, declared in 1974, is one of Karnataka’s largest and most biodiverse sanctuaries, home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and sloth bears. However, human-animal conflict and electrocution deaths threaten the very existence of these majestic creatures.
*The Future of Shettihalli’ Elephants Hangs in the Balance*
As the sanctuary struggles with ineffective management and neglect, the fate of its iconic inhabitants hangs in the balance. Will the authorities heed Herale’s call for action and protect the sanctuary’s precious wildlife, or will the elephants of Shettihalli continue to face the deadly consequences of human neglect?
