Kerala Forest Minister Shibu Baby John announced that the state government is developing a comprehensive multi-layer protective barrier mechanism to address the growing threat of human-wildlife conflict in high-risk areas. This defensive system will incorporate AI-based surveillance and early-warning tools, hanging fences, and stronger defensive structures where necessary.
The Forest department is focusing on a containment and mitigation strategy, prioritizing the prevention of wild animals from entering human settlements while minimizing the impact of conflicts when they occur. The strategy also aims to keep wild animals within forest habitats by improving food and water availability inside forests.
In addition to the multi-layer protective barrier mechanism, the government is exploring innovative deterrent measures. These include technologies that mimic the buzzing sound of bees, as elephants have a natural fear of bee swarms. However, field experiments have shown that elephants eventually adapt to such systems and even destroy equipment.
According to Minister John, the scenario highlights the need for integrated solutions rather than standalone interventions. The government is working to develop a comprehensive approach to tackle human-wildlife conflict in the state.
The proposed defensive system and deterrent measures are part of the government’s efforts to address the growing concern of human-wildlife conflict in Kerala. The state is looking for effective solutions to mitigate the impact of conflicts and ensure the safety of both humans and wild animals.
Minister John informed the Kerala Legislative Assembly about the government’s plans during the Question Hour on Wednesday, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to tackle human-wildlife conflict in the state.
