Bengaluru: Karnataka Environment and Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has instructed senior forest officials to hold monthly grievance redressal meetings in villages bordering forest areas. The directive aims to improve engagement with affected communities and address issues arising from human-wildlife conflict.
Chairing the Standing Committee meeting of the State Wildlife Board on Wednesday, the Minister emphasised that Deputy Conservators of Forests (DCF), Assistant Conservators of Forests (ACF), and Range Forest Officers must personally visit these villages to listen to local grievances and take swift remedial action.
Responding to Conflict, Strengthening Field Vigilance
Mr. Khandre specifically directed officers to prioritise villages where crop damage and loss of life due to wildlife encounters have been reported. He urged frontline staff to maintain cordial relations with villagers and provide on-ground support in crisis situations.
Citing the recent deaths of five tigers in M.M. Hills and fatal incidents involving elephants and illegal electric fences, the Minister stressed the need for proactive supervision. He also emphasized how such tragedies can be prevented if senior officials actively review zonal performances and encourage forest patrol teams.
Railway Track Expansion and Biodiversity Concerns
The Minister also reviewed the contentious proposal to double the railway track from Hosapete to Castle Rock. He discussed strategies to minimise environmental and wildlife impact and instructed officials to present an updated mitigation plan at the next board meeting.
First Marine Sanctuary in Karnataka Set for Inauguration
During the session, Khandre confirmed that Karnataka’s first marine sanctuary—Mugli-Apsarakonda Marine Sanctuary—will be formally inaugurated in September. Located near Honnavar in Uttara Kannada, the sanctuary spans 5,959 hectares and received State Cabinet approval in June. The proposal had earlier been cleared by the Karnataka State Board for Wildlife.
