Human rights panel calls for effective early warning systems in human-wildlife conflict zones in Keralam
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has ordered the Forest and Wildlife Department to implement better early warning systems to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts. The commission suggests using modern technology like drones and sensors to protect both human lives and wildlife habitats.
Why it matters
Effective management of human-wildlife conflict is essential for public safety and biodiversity conservation in rural and forested regions.
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has directed the Forest and Wildlife Department and the Local Self-Government Department in the State to take coordinated measures to find a permanent solution to the recurring human-wildlife conflict.
The rights panel has also asked the Chief Secretary to take the initiative to coordinate the efforts of the departments concerned and ensure effective implementation of measures covering all conflict-prone areas.
In an order issued in a case registered suo motu on the basis of media reports, judicial member K. Byjunath said the State should strengthen its early warning and response mechanism instead of relying primarily on measures such as chasing away wild elephants, erecting fences and providing compensation after attacks.
The commission said an effective system should identify and communicate the threat before a conflict occurs. Modern technology should be deployed based on the specific conditions prevailing in different conflict zones, it said.
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