Karnataka minister demands probe into wildlife deaths at Bandipur reserve

Ramalinga Reddy, a prominent Karnataka minister, has sought a comprehensive report on recent tiger and elephant deaths occurring within Bandipur Tiger Reserve, one of South India's most significant wildlife sanctuaries. The demand signals official concern over the circumstances surrounding the animal fatalities and their potential impact on conservation efforts in the region.

Bandipur Tiger Reserve, located in Karnataka's Chamarajanagar district, is a critical habitat for endangered tiger populations and Asian elephants in the Western Ghats ecosystem. The reserve has historically served as a key corridor for wildlife movement and breeding, making the recent deaths a matter of ecological significance.

The minister's directive seeks to establish the causes and contributing factors behind the mortalities, which could range from natural causes to disease, human-wildlife conflict, or other environmental factors. Officials are expected to examine veterinary records, autopsy findings, and on-ground conditions to provide a thorough assessment.

The investigation comes as wildlife authorities across India intensify efforts to monitor tiger reserves and protect elephant populations in response to growing conservation challenges. Results from the Bandipur inquiry could inform management strategies not only for the reserve but also for other protected areas in the region facing similar wildlife health concerns.