12-member Karnataka team deployed to relocate rogue elephant in Tirap
The specialised team has launched an operation in Arunachal’s Deomali to track a rogue elephant linked to multiple deaths, including that of a former MLA.
Forest officials said the intensified operation follows a series of tragic incidents linked to the rogue elephant, which has heightened fear among residents in the Deomali area.
Itanagar, April 1: A 12-member expert team from Karnataka arrived at Deomali in Tirap district on Monday to track and relocate a rogue elephant responsible for multiple human casualties in the district over the last two years, including the death of a former MLA who was attacked while on a morning walk.
Led by Dr Ramesha H, a senior veterinary officer and elephant specialist, the team comprises experts in tranquillisation, wildlife monitoring, and trained mahouts from elephant camps. The operation will involve the use of kumki (trained) elephants and thermal drones for effective tracking and safe capture of the pachyderm.
Forest officials said the intensified operation follows a series of tragic incidents linked to the rogue elephant, which has heightened fear among residents in the Deomali area. The killing of former legislator Kapchen Rajkumar has further underscored the urgency of addressing the human-elephant conflict in the region.
Welcoming the team, Range Forest Officer (RFO), Deomali, Diwang Lowang appealed to the residents to remain vigilant and immediately report any sightings of the elephant to the Forest Department, stressing that public cooperation is crucial for the success of the operation.
The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Deomali, also appreciated Forest and Environment Minister Wangki Lowang for facilitating the deployment of wildlife experts and support teams to assist in the translocation of the rogue elephant from the Deomali forest area.