A radio-collared elephant, fitted with a tracking device in Sakleshpur, Hassan district, a few months ago, has wandered into Shivamogga’s Thirthahalli taluk, causing panic in the villages. The tusker, estimated to be around 15 years old, has been traveling near human habitats, passing close to Thirthahalli MLA Jnanendra’s village, Araga.
Despite being monitored by the Elephant Task Force (ETF) staff, the elephant’s erratic movements have made it challenging to track. According to DCF Shivashankar, the elephant might find its way into the Someshwara wildlife sanctuary.
The elephant’s journey began in the Sunday morning, covering approximately 50 km.! With its radio collar app updating only once every three to four hours, the tracking process has become increasingly difficult. The elephant’s aggressive behavior has been reported, and its movements are being closely watched.
The elephant had previously been brought to the Bhadra Sanctuary and released but seems to have lost its way. It crossed the Tunga River through Muttinakoppa on the Shivamogga-Chikkamagaluru border and proceeded through various villages. The forest department has taken cautionary measures in several areas, anticipating the elephant’s possible routes.
As the elephant continues its journey, concerns have been raised about its potential destination. With no clear plan to return it to its original habitat, the forest department is following it, ensuring public safety. The elephant’s movements are expected to be monitored closely, with the possibility of it moving through the Someshwara forest in Karkala division to Kudremukh.
The situation remains under watch, with the forest department taking necessary precautions to prevent any further conflicts between humans and the elephant.
