Govt to breed jumbo-repelling bees to curb wild elephants foraying into human settlements

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said in a press conference that a special type of bee that repels elephants will be bred in suitable areas to prevent elephant encroachment. Because these bees attract bears, they are intended to be bred in bear-free areas.

Invasive vegetation in the forest will be avoided. A 24-hour state-level control room has been opened at the forest department headquarters to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. Emergency operation center will be started in 36 forest divisions. WhatsApp groups will be formed at the panchayat level to warn people in areas prone to wild animal attacks. Around 900 temporary watchers have been appointed. The Wildlife Veterinary Division will be strengthened in the Forest Department.

In 66 plantations in Wayanad, undergrowth is being removed with the help of panchayat authorities. 28 RRTs are functioning with redeployment of staff. 64 pump action guns, two tranquilizer guns and four drones will be procured. 264 Panchayat-based Vigilance Committees will be strengthened. Availability of water will be ensured for the animals within the forest. 341 ponds are maintained in Wayanad forest sector and 249 in Idukki. Construction of water tanks is also under consideration.

Rs 6.45 crore out of Rs 13.70 crore was disbursed to the victims of wildlife attacks. The remaining 7.26 crore will be paid immediately. Rs 220 crores will be provided by KIIFB for projects to prevent wildlife conflict. A committee comprising international and national experts will be formed within a week to submit proposals for long-term and short-term projects. The Chief Minister also said that a seminar will be organized in April with the participation of international experts.