The Sampadak Express News Desk
Environment Minister Ramalinga Reddy has directed officials to mandate a 20 to 30-day training period for elephants participating in processions after an elephant ran helter-skelter while carrying a howdah bearing the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari during a Jamboo Savari in Shivamogga on Wednesday, October 21, according to The Hindu.
He instructed Forest Department officials to conduct the training under the supervision of experienced elephant caretakers and Kavadis, and to enforce strict precautionary measures. The programme is to prepare the jumbos for various situations, including managing large crowds and becoming accustomed to the sounds of musical instruments and firecrackers.
“Priority must be given to the physical and mental health of the elephants. Besides training them, crowd management and public safety must also be prioritised,” Mr. Reddy said.
Mr. Reddy spoke by phone with the Deputy Commissioner, the Superintendent of Police and Forest Department officials in Shimoga district and sought a report on the incident.
