District admn rolls out measures to tackle rising human-wildlife conflict

Local bodies to identify high-risk zones, set up emergency contact points for prompt response

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @Kollam

THE Kollam district administration is adopting a multi-pronged approach to control wildlife intrusions, particularly in areas close to forest boundaries where incidents of crop destruction and attacks on people have increased.

Over the past five years, Rs 3.65 crore has been distributed in Kollam district as compensation for crop loss, injuries, and fatalities caused by wildlife attacks.

Local bodies have been asked to identify high-risk zones and set up emergency contact points for immediate reporting and response.

Panchayats are being encouraged to include trained local volunteers in defence squads so they can respond quickly in the event of an animal sighting or confrontation.