Reckless encounter with elephant in Bandipur sparks concern amid night traffic debate

A recent incident in the Bandipur Tiger Reserve has raised serious concerns about human-wildlife interactions and the ongoing debate over lifting night traffic restrictions. A man travelling on a motorcycle stopped near the road and recklessly approached a herd of elephants. The individual began provoking the animals, resulting in one of the elephants charging towards him.

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As the elephant attacked him, the man tried to flee but fell to the ground in panic. Fortunately, he managed to escape narrowly and ran back to his motorcycle, fleeing the scene. The vehicle bore a Kerala registration number and the man is believed to be a resident of Kerala.

The dangerous episode occurred in the ecologically sensitive Bandipur Tiger Reserve, where night travel is currently restricted to protect wildlife. However, the Karnataka state government is reportedly considering easing these restrictions. Environmentalists have strongly opposed such a move, fearing that increased night time vehicular activity will lead to more such encounters, endangering both wildlife and humans.

The video of this incident has reignited public concern, especially among conservationists, who warn that allowing night traffic could lead to more reckless behavior and disturbance to animals. The episode underlines the importance of maintaining strict controls to prevent similar events in the future..