Elephant-proof trenches in hilly areas of Thiruvananthapuram to curb human-wildlife conflicts

Elephant-proof trenches are being constructed in Pottomavu tribal town to reduce human-wildlife conflicts. Funded by NABARD, ₹2.77 crore has been allocated for the project, spanning 15.5 kilometers across nine regions in the Thiruvananthapuram division. These trenches are being built in hilly areas bordering forests, including Kulathupuzha, Palode, and Paruthipally, which are adjacent to tribal settlements.The government is adopting region-specific preventive measures to curb wildlife attacks, taking a step-by-step approach to resolve the issue. Additionally, small ponds and fruit trees will be introduced within the forest to provide water and food sources, reducing the likelihood of animals venturing into human settlements. This project is part of a broader initiative, funded by NABARD, to minimize wildlife-related threats.Farmers living in forest fringes are continuously affected by wildlife incursions, prompting them to adopt preventive measures such as electric fences, nets, nooses, pig traps, and PVC guns. However, these methods often prove insufficient. The government’s initiative aims to provide these farmers with more effective, scientific solutions to live without the constant fear of wildlife attacks. The long-term goal is to transform Kerala into a state free from fatalities due to wildlife conflicts.