In a landmark move, the Karnataka High Court has issued a series of strong directives aimed at preventing elephant deaths due to electrocution—a recurring issue in forest-adjacent regions of the state. The court’s orders come after rising public concern and wildlife reports flagged numerous incidents of elephants being killed by live wires and unsafe electrical infrastructure.
Why Are Elephants Dying from Electrocution?
The root causes include:
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Exposed overhead electric transmission lines in forested areas
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Illegal electric fences set up by farmers to deter wild animals
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Lack of proper monitoring mechanisms near elephant corridors
These hazards have proven fatal for elephants, with several cases reported annually in districts like Chamarajanagar, Kodagu, and Hassan.
What Has the Karnataka High Court Ordered?
The High Court, responding to a public interest litigation, has mandated the following actions:
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Installation of underground power cables in sensitive zones
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Use of e-surveillance systems (like thermal cameras and motion sensors) to monitor elephant movement
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Strict action against the installation of illegal electric fences
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Coordination between the Forest Department and energy utilities
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Creation of a state-level task force to oversee implementation
These steps are expected to create safer migratory paths for elephants while reducing human-wildlife conflict.
A Win for Conservation and Safety
This judicial intervention is a major boost for wildlife activists and conservationists who have long campaigned for safer, non-lethal barriers in elephant zones.
It also:
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Enhances ecological accountability among energy providers
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Supports data-driven tracking of elephant movement through tech-based surveillance
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Encourages sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife in Karnataka’s forest belts
The Forest Department has been given two months to submit a compliance report, ensuring urgency in execution.
Next Steps for Implementation
For these directives to work effectively:
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Discoms (power distribution companies) must map and rewire high-risk areas.
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Authorities must invest in real-time monitoring technology.
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Local communities should be educated on legal and safe methods of crop protection.
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Independent audits should track progress and effectiveness of the changes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why is electrocution a major threat to elephants in Karnataka?
A: Many forest areas have low-hanging power lines or illegal electric fencing, which pose fatal risks to roaming elephants.
Q2: Which areas in Karnataka are most affected?
A: Regions like Chamarajanagar, Kodagu, Bandipur, and Hassan report frequent elephant deaths from electrocution due to proximity to elephant corridors.
Q3: What is e-surveillance in this context?
A: E-surveillance includes CCTV cameras, infrared sensors, and other smart monitoring systems that track elephant movement and alert officials in real time.
Q4: How will underground cables help?
A: Shifting overhead wires underground will eliminate the risk of accidental contact with live wires, making the environment safer for both elephants and humans.
Q5: Who is responsible for implementing these directives?
A: The Forest Department, in coordination with electricity boards, is responsible for compliance and rollout. A state-level task force will oversee the process.
Q6: Are there any penalties for violating these rules?
A: Yes. The court has empowered local authorities to take strict legal action against individuals or entities found setting up illegal electric barriers.
Final Thoughts
The Karnataka High Court's proactive stance marks a critical step toward ending preventable wildlife fatalities. With elephants being a keystone species in India’s ecosystems, their protection is not just an environmental concern—but a moral imperative.
By embracing technology, legal enforcement, and community awareness, Karnataka could become a model state for human-wildlife harmony.
Published on May-05-25 by : Abhishek Rana