Belagavi/Mysuru, 3 Nov 

After two elephants died of electrocution in Belagavi district, Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has ordered an investigation. The incident occurred when the elephants brushed against an electrified fence in a farmland at Sulaigali village in Khanapur taluk.  

Khandre directed the Chief Wildlife Warden to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and submit a detailed report within five days, along with recommendations for disciplinary action if any lapses are found. He said strict action would be taken if lapses were found on the part of forest or electricity department personnel.

According to reports, the elephants had been roaming in the area for several days, but forest officials allegedly failed to take precautionary measures to ensure their safety. 

Avadut Tudavekar, district president of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), said, “Like the police, the electricity department should also patrol regularly to check live wires and prevent mishaps.”

Khandre has also directed that a criminal case be registered against those responsible for illegally electrifying fences, which led to the deaths of the elephants.

Meanwhile, the Forest Department has caught a 40-year-old tusker that trampled two people to death in Chikkamagaluru district after a 17-hour operation. 

CM orders that Mysuru safaris be reduced 

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Monday that he has instructed officials to reduce safari activities in the forested regions of Mysuru, following the tragic deaths of three farmers within two weeks in October. 

Siddaramaiah highlighted that increased human activity in forest areas, coupled with the search for resources such as water and food, is pushing wild animals into nearby villages. "What has happened is that people's movement in the forest region has increased, and resorts are coming up," he remarked to reporters.

He elaborated, "Further, safari activities have increased – that’s one reason. Then, they (wild animals) come for water and food to the villages." 

The Chief Minister mentioned that he held a meeting with forest officials and plans to convene another soon. He has also directed action against illegal resorts in the area as part of a comprehensive strategy to address the issue.