NewsFlash Daily™
15 March
Forest Department imposes precautionary restrictions after more than 10 wild elephants spotted at Patla Betta in Sakleshpur taluk
Hassan: Authorities have temporarily restricted tourist entry to Patla Betta after a herd of wild elephants was spotted staying in the hill area over the past two days. The order was issued by the Forest Range Officer of Yesalur Forest Range as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of visitors.
Elephant Herd Returns to Patla Betta
The popular trekking destination in Kadralli village, Sakleshpur taluk, Hassan district, had earlier been frequented by wild elephants. However, when trekking activities increased, noise from tourists and vehicles reportedly disturbed the animals, forcing them to move to other forest areas.
To reduce disturbance to wildlife, the Karnataka Forest Department had earlier imposed restrictions on trekking and also dug trenches to prevent vehicles from reaching the hilltop. As a result, visitors were required to trek on foot to reach the summit.
Reduced Disturbance Brings Elephants Back
With the reduction in vehicular movement and tourist disturbances, a herd of more than ten wild elephants has now returned to Patla Betta. Considering the presence of the animals and the potential risk to visitors, forest officials have temporarily banned tourist entry to the hill.
Elephants Captured on Mobile Camera
Meanwhile, local residents have captured visuals of elephants climbing the hill slopes on their mobile phones. The footage has been widely circulated, drawing attention to the region's renewed wildlife presence.
Forest officials have urged tourists to comply with restrictions and avoid visiting the area until the elephant herd has moved away and the situation is safe again.
