A woman tourist from Chennai died after being caught in an elephant-related incident at the Dubare Elephant Camp on Sunday.
The deceased has been identified as Juneshe (33), a resident of Pallavaram in Chennai. Her husband Joel sustained injuries in the incident, while their child escaped unharmed.
According to reports, tourists were watching elephants being bathed in the river at the Dubare camp when another elephant, identified as “Kanjan,” suddenly attacked a Makhna(tuskless) elephant named “Marthanda.” During the commotion, the elephant reportedly fell, trapping Juneshe underneath and causing serious injuries.
She was rushed to Kushalnagar Hospital but succumbed to her injuries. Joel was treated for injuries sustained in the incident.
The sudden attack created panic among tourists present at the spot, who scattered for safety. Officials stated that a major tragedy was narrowly avoided despite the large crowd present. Forest Minister Eshwar B. Khandre expressed condolences over the incident and termed it deeply shocking and painful.
He stressed the need to maintain a safe distance from elephants and other wildlife, noting that animal behaviour can be unpredictable despite training and domestication.
Madikeri MLA Mantar Gowda visited the hospital, met the victim’s family, and instructed officials to take necessary precautions to prevent such incidents in future.
