Daijiworld Media Network - Wayanad

Wayanad, Sep 30: Wayanad MP and Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi has emphasized the urgent need for collaborative, multi-stakeholder efforts to tackle the rising man-animal conflict in Kerala’s ecologically sensitive Wayanad district. During her recent visit to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Gandhi engaged with forest officials and renowned veterinary surgeon Dr Arun Zacharia to gain firsthand insights into ongoing mitigation strategies.

Sharing her experience in a post on X, Gandhi praised Dr Zacharia’s deep understanding of forest dynamics and wild animal behavior, noting that his expertise, along with the dedication of the forest department, is instrumental in developing practical responses to the crisis. One such key strategy discussed was the deployment of Kumki elephants—trained tuskers used to safely drive away wild elephants that stray into human settlements. Gandhi highlighted their vital role in reducing property damage and saving lives.

Wayanad, a region known for its lush forests and rich biodiversity, has seen a sharp increase in human-wildlife encounters in recent years, often with deadly consequences. Incidents involving straying elephants have led to several human casualties and significant damage to crops and homes, triggering growing concern among local communities.

Gandhi, who has raised the issue in Parliament, reiterated that piecemeal solutions would not suffice. “Man-animal conflict in Wayanad is a complex problem for which all of us have to collaborate and find workable solutions,” she stated, stressing the importance of coordinated action that involves local residents, conservation experts, and government bodies.

Her intervention comes at a critical time, as pressure mounts to strike a balance between protecting wildlife and ensuring the safety and livelihoods of people living on the forest fringes.