A lone male elephant, fitted with a radio collar, has ventured into Thirthahalli Taluk of Shivamogga district couple of days back and is now causing anxiety in the Hosangadi area of Kundapura Taluk, Udupi district. The pachyderm, which originated from Sakaleshpura and was previously in the Bhadra wildlife division in Chikkamagaluru, is locally known as Adkabadaka.
The elephant was observed near Siddapura, at the Kamalashile temple’s welcome gate on Wednesday night. Officials report that it follows a pattern of resting during daylight hours and becoming active at night. Three teams of forest personnel have been assigned to capture the animal.
Educational institutions including Anganwadi, primary schools, and high schools in Siddapura, Kamalashile, and Hosangadi have been temporarily closed as a safety measure. Residents have been urged to exercise caution. The authorities are tracking the elephant’s location using its radio collar and monitoring its movements with drone cameras to facilitate its capture.
The animal is thought to have travelled from Balebara Ghat into Kundapura, moving through forested regions of Hosangadi, Siddapura, and Kamalashile. The wildlife division has organised a capture operation involving Kumki elephants and 20 staff members from Sakrebailu camp.
BJP MLA Gururaj Gantihole has voiced his concerns about the situation, noting the difficulties in driving the elephant away and advocating for relocation. He has discussed the matter with Forest Minister Eshwar B Khandre, highlighting the elephant’s erratic movements and the need for swift relocation to prevent potential issues.
The Deputy Conservators of Forests from Kundapura, Kuduremukh, and Shivamogga wildlife divisions have held a high-level meeting to plan the capture operation. Wildlife veterinarian Dr. Ramesh is expected to tranquilise the elephant by Thursday evening or Friday morning. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure public safety.
