New devices offer hope against wild elephant menace in Malanadu

Malanadu’s coffee-growing region, long troubled by the menace of wild elephants, may finally see some relief thanks to new technology introduced by a private organization. Farmers here have faced devastating losses as herds of elephants stray from the forests into their estates, destroying crops nurtured with care. Beyond economic damage, fear for safety has also gripped the community, with five deaths reported in N.R. Pura alone within a year.

For years, protecting crops at sunrise has been a daunting challenge. Elephants have trampled areca and coffee plantations, resulting in losses worth lakhs. Many farmers are even hesitant to enter their own fields, worried about sudden encounters with the animals.

Also read: Namma Metro Blue Line to Bengaluru airport set for 2027 completion

Three innovative devices

Responding to these concerns, a Bengaluru-based company has introduced three innovative devices aimed at deterring elephants. The first is a loud siren, the second a high-intensity light, and the third a gun that produces automatic firing sounds. All three are sensor-operated, activating when elephants approach.

These devices are currently being introduced to farmers in N.R. Pura, Sringeri. While many remain cautious, several are considering adopting the technology in hopes of safeguarding their livelihoods. Farmers who have already endured repeated losses say that timely compensation alone cannot cover their struggles, and a preventive solution is urgently needed.

Whether these devices will truly succeed in keeping wild elephants at bay remains to be seen, but for now, they bring a much-needed ray of hope to the farmers of Malanadu.