Human-wildlife conflict in Kodagu: Ponnanna seeks more Central funding

Human–wildlife conflict has emerged as a serious concern in Kodagu district, accounting for a significant share of fatalities in the State, prompting urgent intervention measures and calls for increased Central assistance.

A.S. Ponnanna, Legal Advisor to the Chief Minister and Virajpet MLA, on Saturday said the issue continues to pose a serious challenge, with the State government stepping up mitigation efforts while urging the Centre for greater financial support.

Addressing a press conference in Madikeri, Mr. Ponnanna said multiple steps are underway to curb wildlife incursions, including the construction of elephant trenches, installation of solar-powered fencing, and rail barricades. However, several works remain incomplete, underscoring the need for sustained intervention.

He emphasised that addressing human–wildlife conflict requires coordinated efforts between the State and the Centre, and called for enhanced funding to tackle the problem effectively.

It may be recalled here that Forest Minister Eshwar B. Khandre, during a meeting with Kodagu legislators in Bengaluru, expressed concern over the rising loss of human lives due to wildlife conflict and directed officials to complete the repair and maintenance of 422 km of elephant trenches and 544 km of hanging solar fences within one month. Mr. Ponnanna and Madikeri MLA Mantar Gowda were present.

According to Mr. Khandre, Kodagu alone accounts for 38% of deaths caused by human–wildlife conflict in the State. He has instructed authorities to intensify patrolling, strengthen the elephant task force, and rapid response teams and other mitigation units to handle the situation.

In addition, officials have been directed to compile data on plantation workers across zones and establish alert systems using WhatsApp and public address systems mounted on vehicles to warn residents when elephants or other wildlife approach human settlements or plantation areas.

Kodagu development

At the press conference, Mr. Ponnanna also highlighted that the Siddaramaiah-led government has prioritised Kodagu’s development over the past three years. The long-pending demand for a Tribal Development Corporation has been fulfilled through a budget announcement, along with the decision to establish a Kodava Development Corporation, he informed.

The MLA said a sports training centre will be set up on 11 acres in V. Badaga village to encourage youth participation in Olympic disciplines, and that steps have been initiated to upgrade two hospitals in the district.

District President of the Guarantee Schemes Implementation Committee Dharmaja Uthappa, Sports Authority Vice-President Arun Machaiah, former MLC Veena Achaiah, and others were present.