Forest Department cautions on movement of wild elephants in Belagavi

Forest Department officials have cautioned the people about the movement of wild elephants in some villages of Khanapur and Belagavi taluks in Belagavi district.

“It has come to the notice of the Forest Department that a herd of wild elephants is roaming in the villages on the border of Khanapur and Belagavi taluks. Farmers and officers have sighted them in villages like Bakanur, Belavatti, Bailur, and Kusamalli. Kinaye, Habbanatti, Devachihatti, and surrounding villages. Usually, their movement is higher from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and the public are instructed not to venture alone into forest areas and farms near them,” the .

The release further advised the public to avoid attempts to provoke the wild animals by screaming, throwing stones, or beating them with sticks. They should desist from taking photos with mobile flash. This may anger the elephants and cause them to attack, the release said.

Farmers are urged not to install illegal electric fences around their homes or farms. This is a punishable offence and can cause death to both animals and humans.

The Forest Department has deployed a Rapid Response Team (RRT) and staff, and a 24-hour surveillance is being maintained on the movement of elephants. The department has made all preparations to safely return the elephants to the forest.

“If you see elephants in your area, you are requested to immediately call the nearest forest office or the helpline below and provide information. Information can be shared with the Forest Control Room: [Insert phone number/1926], Zonal Forest Officer (RFO), Khanapur: 8105344308,” said a release.