The forest department in Chikkamagaluru is preparing to launch a pioneering gaur relocation operation aimed at reducing man-animal conflict in the region. This marks the first such initiative in the state, with a dedicated team formed to carry out the task.
Background of the Operation
With the Indian gaur population on the rise in the district, the department has taken proactive measures. A team led by Chief Conservator of Forests (Chikkamagaluru Circle) Yashpal Kshirsagar has been trained to safely capture and relocate the animals. The operation is designed to minimize encounters between gaurs and humans in vulnerable zones, which have become increasingly common in Kalasa, Balehonnour, Sringeri, and Koppa taluks.
Human Casualties and Injuries
According to forest officials, the conflict has resulted in significant harm over the past five years. In the Kalasa Range alone, five people have lost their lives, while 22 others have been injured in the Koppa division. These incidents underscore the urgency of the relocation effort.
Pilot Project and Planning
Following the directives of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, who recently visited the Koppa division, the operation will be conducted as a pilot project. The CCF has inspected several locations in the Koppa division to identify suitable sites for rescuing the bison. However, the final location will be determined after further discussions, and the rescue will take place on a designated day.
Challenges and Safety Measures
The CCF acknowledged that the operation is challenging and demands significant effort. It will be carried out with utmost care to ensure the safety of both the bison and the forest personnel. The team includes experts such as the CCF himself, the Deputy Conservator of Forests (Koppa), the DCF (Bhadra Wildlife), the Dean of the Veterinary College in Shivamogga, and four experienced veterinarians.
Yashpal Kshirsagar highlighted the risks involved, citing an incident in Madhya Pradesh where a veterinarian was severely injured during the transportation of a tranquillized gaur. The animal, weighing 800 kilograms, shook its head while the doctor was holding it, causing serious injuries that required ICU treatment.
Local Response
Residents have welcomed the initiative and urged officials to ensure the safety of the animals. Deepak, a planter in Koppa, noted that while bison are native to the region, their overpopulation has become a problem. He shared that one of his plantation workers was severely injured in a bison attack a year ago, emphasizing the need for the relocation effort.
