The Kerala state government has launched a significant campaign to address the escalating issue of human-wildlife conflict, and its initial phase has already seen a remarkable turnout. Nearly 18,000 petitions have poured in from various parts of the state, highlighting the urgency of the problem. These grievances encompass a wide array of concerns, ranging from direct wildlife encounters and compensation claims to disputes over tree felling in plantation areas and other land-related matters.
Forests Minister A.K. Saseendran confirmed that immediate action was taken on many fronts. Panchayat-level review meetings have already been conducted, leading to the successful resolution of numerous complaints at the range and division levels. The more complex issues, however, are now slated for detailed attention in the upcoming stages of the program.
Official data reveals that a grand total of 17,955 petitions were formally lodged throughout Kerala. The northern region, encompassing forest divisions such as Kannur, Kasaragod, Kozhikode, and both north and south Wayanad, showed the highest level of public engagement, with 7,246 petitions. The eastern districts, including Nilambur, Mannarkkad, Nenmara, and Palakkad, followed with 4,131 petitions, while the central zone contributed 3,647.
The program’s crucial second phase is set to begin this Wednesday. Over the subsequent four days, all submitted complaints will undergo meticulous categorization. This process will pave the way for a series of district-level meetings, scheduled from October 6-10, and presided over by the respective district-in-charge Ministers. These meetings will be complemented by further departmental discussions, all with the primary objective of addressing issues that require collaborative solutions from various government departments and local administrative bodies.