Virajpet MLA and Chief Minister’s Legal Advisor A.S. Ponnanna during his visit to villages in Birunani GP limits in Kodagu on Tuesday.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

A major operation is under way in Kodagu district to capture two elusive tigers that have been sighted in Theralu and surrounding villages under the jurisdiction of Birunani Gram Panchayat. The Forest Department, supported by elephants from the Dubare elephant camp — Gopi and Srirama — has been involved in the effort for the past five days.

Virajpet MLA A. S. Ponnana on Tuesday visited the areas where the operation was being carried out to oversee the efforts and interact with both forest officials and concerned residents. The MLA claimed that the department has been granted permission to capture the tigers and noted that the matter has been discussed with Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre.

The MLA held detailed discussions with forest officials following multiple reports of tiger sightings in Teralu, B. Shettigeri, Srimangala, and other nearby villages. He urged officials to expedite the capture, citing the growing fear among residents living near the forest fringes.

To enhance coordination, forest officials suggested creating a WhatsApp group that includes local forest officers, the Gram Panchayat Panchayat Development Officer (PDO), and residents. This group would serve as a platform to share real-time alerts on tiger sightings and coordinate responses more effectively.

Senior forest officer Jagannath stated that surveillance operations are currently monitoring tiger movements from Iruppu to Kotiyalu, with several tracking camps established along the route.

The MLA said Teralu falls within the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, and added that the safety of villagers in forest-border areas has to be a priority.

Mr Ponnana also emphasized the need for a sensitive approach towards the poor and tribal communities residing near forest land.

Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna speaking to the forest officials on the status of the operation in Kodagu on Tuesday.
| Photo Credit:
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Karnataka Wildlife Board member Saketh Poovaiah remarked that human-wildlife conflict has been a long-standing issue in Kodagu and praised the MLA’s efforts to address the situation.

Deputy Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Nehru added that over 60 forest officers and personnel have been deployed in the combing operation.

Birunani Gram Panchayat President Rajesh highlighted the prevailing fear among residents due to frequent encounters with both tigers and elephants. He stressed the urgent need for a permanent solution to mitigate human-animal conflict in the region.