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Elephant Corridor Plan Sparks Fierce Debate
2 Nov
Summary
- NTCA recommends Kaniyanapura forest as elephant corridor.
- Luxury resorts are blamed for obstructing elephant movement.
- Local residents fear livelihood impact from corridor declaration.
The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has put forth a recommendation for the Union government to designate Kaniyanapura forest as an elephant corridor. This strategic area is situated in proximity to the Bandipur Tiger Reserve (BTR). The NTCA's proposal stems from growing concerns over the proliferation of luxury resorts, farmhouses, and extensive fencing that impede natural elephant movement.
This initiative aims to mitigate potential human-elephant conflicts and crop damage, issues exacerbated by obstructed migratory paths. The NTCA's report specifically highlights how commercial constructions, including hotels and restaurants with bright lights and high walls, along with loud music and unrestricted human activity, disturb elephant populations.
The authority stressed that the declaration should not negatively impact local farmers or their traditional livelihoods. It also advocated for the enforcement of a 2012 government notification that prohibits converting agricultural land for commercial purposes within the Bandipur buffer zone. While wildlife activists laud the move for enhanced conservation, local farmers and residents fear repercussions on their ability to sell land and sustain their income through existing establishments.
