Assam Initiates Drive to Prevent Elephant Electrocution with Illegal Power Connections

The Assam power department, led by Minister Nandita Garlosa, is launching an awareness campaign to prevent wild elephant electrocution due to illegal power connections. Targeting Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC) areas, the initiative features the 'HaatiApp' for early elephant warnings and a solar fence manual to promote safer practices.

Assam's power department is set to launch an awareness drive to prevent the electrocution of wild elephants through illegal power connections, announced Minister Nandita Garlosa on Saturday.

The campaign targets grassroots communities in Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC) hotspots where residents sometimes use illegal electrified fences for protection. Garlosa underscored that despite the reverence for elephants in Assam, the fear for safety and property compel people to take hazardous actions.

Garlosa spoke at the launch of the 'HaatiApp' and a solar fence manual, assuring that the power department would actively work with communities in HEC-affected areas to raise awareness about the dangers and legal consequences of illegal electric connections.

Developed by biodiversity conservation group Aaranyak, the 'HaatiApp' serves as an early warning system for wild elephant presence and features a compensation form for elephant attack victims. Aaranyak has also compiled a detailed Assamese handbook on solar-powered fences, highlighting their utility and humane approach in mitigating HEC.

(With inputs from agencies.)