Kerala's Innovative Strategy to Ease Human-Animal Conflict

The Kerala forest department has rolled out a comprehensive plan comprising food and water provision, solar fencing, and modernization to tackle rising human-animal conflicts. This initiative reflects collaboration with local communities and aims to maintain animal habitat to prevent them from entering human settlements.

As temperatures rise with summer's onset, Kerala's forest department has introduced a multipronged plan to mitigate human-animal conflicts, emphasizing the provision of food and water within forest areas.

Pramod G Krishnan, the State Chief Wildlife Warden, detailed efforts, such as the creation of 2000-3000 water holes and the revival of grass and marsh lands, aimed at preventing animals from encroaching on human settlements.

Combining tribal knowledge with modern technology, the strategy includes solar fencing and collaborative efforts with local bodies. Initial success is visible, with noticeable results in fringe areas, particularly in Wayanad-Parambikulam.

(With inputs from agencies.)