Karnataka sees 183% surge in human-wildlife conflicts over five years

Karnataka has witnessed a sharp 183% increase in human-wildlife conflict (HWC) cases between 2019 and 2024, underscoring growing challenges for conservation and rural safety. The southern Western Ghats region, rich in biodiversity, has emerged as a major hotspot for such incidents, which have risen from a few hundred in 2019 to several thousand by the end of 2024.

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A comprehensive study published in the Indian Society of Remote Sensing journal has analyzed over 34,000 HWC cases in Karnataka over a five-year span. Conducted by researchers from institutions in Karnataka and Telangana, the study mapped conflict hotspots and identified patterns crucial for future mitigation efforts.

Elephants, tigers, and leopards were responsible for nearly 98% of reported cases, while other species like wild boars, gaurs, and sloth bears were also involved. The government disbursed approximately ₹27 crore in compensation during this period. Crop damage was the predominant form of conflict, with elephants accounting for 97.8% of agricultural losses.

Surprisingly, the majority of incidents occurred during the monsoon (July–September), rather than the dry summer months. The study attributes this trend to the spread of invasive plant species such as Lantana camara and Senna spectabilis, along with legacy monoculture plantations that disrupt natural food sources and animal movement.

Conflicts were most frequent in agricultural lands near settlements, especially within 500 meters. Infrastructure development, including roads, has further fragmented habitats, increasing encounters along forest edges and elevational zones.