Kozhikode: In a bid to find a permanent solution to the escalating human-wildlife conflict in Kerala, the state Forests and Wildlife Department conducted a detailed study and has submitted a comprehensive report before the Chief Minister of Kerala. The 130-page study report has been compiled by Anoop KR, CCF Central Circle, K Vijayanandan, CCF Eastern Circle and Bala Subrahmaniam, Conservation Biologist.
A total of Rs110 crores is needed for the implementation of the projects mentioned in the report. Unlike the earlier studies held, this new one stands unique as region-specific studies were conducted to come up with solutions.
For example, the wild elephant threat is a concern in Munnar, Aralam and Walayar. The study report proposes to install a special device in these areas as a solution for the mess.
Wild boar attack is rampant in rural areas of Kozhikode and Wayanad. The report suggests the elimination of all problematic wild boars and the strengthening of physical barriers to block them from entering the villages.
Enriching the habitats of animals is another measure pointed out in the report to prevent them from entering villages in search of food and water.
The study also highlights the need to kill all animals that are harmful to human life. “With the recent High Court order to kill wild boars, over 500 among them have been killed by farmers across the state. The safety of humans is of utmost importance and in certain circumstances killing them is the only option,” said an official of the department.
The report also highlights the need to start two animal rescue centres in every district. At present we have animal rescue centres in Thiruvananthapuram, Wayanad, Konni, Kodanad and Palakkad. “Injured animals may come out of forests to escape predators and it may trouble people living on the fringes of forests. The rescue centres will help to treat the animals and to send them back."
The study report concludes by suggesting a set of six recommendations to be followed on a war footing. 1, The existing physical barriers on the fringes of forest have to be strengthened 2, Physical barriers to be set up wherever necessary. 3, The habitat of wild animals must be improved 4, Highly problematic animals have to be identified and killed 5, Animal rescue centres in all districts 6, People living on border areas have to be made aware of the need to maintain ecosystem, equilibrium and biodiversity.
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