Implementation of Solar Fencing in the Dudhwa Buffer Zone to Mitigate Human-Animal Conflicts
The ongoing solar fencing initiative in Dudhwa Buffer Zone, spanning 20 km across Palia, Manjgain, and Bhira ranges, is making significant progress under the supervision of Mr. Saureesh Sahai, deputy director of DBZ. The primary objective is to create a protective barrier along Dudhwa National Park, effectively preventing wild animals from intruding into human habitats and causing damage to agricultural crops – a prevalent issue leading to human-animal conflicts in the terai region of Kheri district.
Mr. Lalit Verma, the field director of DTR, emphasizes the potential of this initiative to curtail conflicts by acting as a deterrent for wild animals, especially tigers, leopards and wild elephants. The urgency stems from the recent surge in human-animal conflicts within DBZ, resulting in losses on both sides. The escalating population of big cats and other wildlife species has heightened concerns, exacerbated by the free movement of animals from Nepal into areas like DTR, DBZ, and adjoining regions. This influx has led to prolonged stays, causing damage to crops and property, particularly affecting local farmers.
The terai region encompasses vital wildlife reserves such as Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (PTR), Dudhwa National Park (DNP), and Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. Honorable Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, during a visit to PTR in October, mandated the implementation of solar fencing in sensitive areas along PTR, DBZ, and Manjhra range of Katerniaghat. Consequently, budget allocations were swiftly made, and the solar fencing work in Palia, Bhira, and Manjgain ranges is well underway.
Mr. Saureesh Sahai further explains that the solar fencing, equipped with non-lethal electric shock capabilities, serves as a humane method to discourage wild animals and big cats from trespassing. This innovative approach aims to strike a balance between human settlements and wildlife, providing an effective solution to the persistent problem of man-animal conflicts in the region.
In addition to solar fencing, there are plans for a chain-link fence in the Manjhra area, covering approximately 10 km in radius. This initiative intends to safeguard human settlements from wildlife, especially considering the region's proximity to Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. However, the commencement of the chain-link fencing is currently pending due to ongoing processes related to work allotment.