Water mgmt at A’thittu sanctuary keeps tigers from straying

Mysuru: Forest authorities here have managed to curb frequent human-tiger conflicts by focusing on water management at Arabhithittu Wildlife Sanctuary on the Hunsur-Mysuru border. This has helped ensure the big cats do not venture out of the 24 sqkm of protected area off Mysuru-Madikeri Road in Hunsur taluk in search of water during the summer months.Deputy conservator of forests (wildlife) I B Prabhugouda told TOI 26 ponds have been created across the sanctuary since Feb, with daily water recharge by the staff. In addition, a solar-powered borewell is supporting the operation and helping maintain a steady supply of water inside the wildlife sanctuary. Arabhithittu Wildlife Sanctuary is currently home to four tigers. To closely monitor their movements and track the activity of other animals, AI-enabled cameras have been installed in the sanctuary, Prabhugouda said.