Koppal
Farmers of Kasanakandi, Chikkabaganal, and Karkihalli, situated near Tungabhadra dam, are currently facing threat from wild animals such as leopards and bears. For past two weeks, they have been conducting night-time patrols with torches, fearing that these animals may enter their villages.
Kasanakandi protected forest, located near Kirloskar factory along the Hubli-Ballari highway, is home to various wild animals. Locals often report sightings of leopards and bears coming to drink from the Tungabhadra River at night. Villagers assert that the proximity of their homes to the forest has led to increased encounters with these animals. A recent mobile phone footage captured an animal fleeing, which villagers believe to be a leopard.
The maize crops cultivated by local farmers have grown tall. Farmers are now watering their fields at night, taking turns to patrol with torches due to concerns about leopards potentially hiding in the maize fields.
Kasanakandi forest is known to house two leopards, one of which was captured by the forest department recently, while the other is believed to still be in the forest and is approaching the villages at night.
Zonal Forest Officer KM Nagaraj has not confirmed these claims, stating that it is typical for wild animals to come out for water at night, but they do not typically linger in agricultural areas. He also noted that conducting agricultural activities in the backwaters region is illegal.
Meanwhile, farmers remain committed to keep vigil until their crops are harvested.
