Solar Fence Unveiled to Tackle Human-Elephant Conflicts in Assam's Lahapara Village

A two-kilometer solar-powered fence has been inaugurated in Lahapara village, Assam, to protect locals from human-elephant conflicts. The initiative, led by the Aaranyak team and the Lakhipur Forest Range, aims to enhance safety and foster coexistence between humans and elephants.

In a significant move to curb human-elephant conflicts in Assam's Goalpara district, a two-kilometer-long solar-powered fence has been installed in Lahapara village. This initiative aims to safeguard approximately 450 villagers belonging to the prominent Rabha tribe.

The fence was inaugurated by Dharmendra Das, Range Officer of Lakhipur Range, during a ceremony attended by about 80 villagers, including several women. Organized by village leaders, the event signified a community-driven effort to address the conflict.

The local community honored the Aaranyak team and Lakhipur forest range staff for their efforts in the fence's installation. Dharmendra Das emphasized the collaboration between Aaranyak, the Forest Department, and villagers, while Aaranyak's Anjan Baruah highlighted the fence's maintenance and proposed lemon bio-fences as a long-term solution.

Involvement of the Aaranyak team and local residents ensured successful completion of the project, with an MoU cementing the collaboration. Now handed over to a local management committee, the solar fence represents a proactive step in fostering peace between communities and elephants.

(With inputs from agencies.)