Check intrusion

#Cheek #intrusion

The rapid expansion of activities like ganja cultivation, resort construction, stone mining, and illegal logging in Kerala's dense forests is leading to a significant expulsion of wildlife, including buffalos and other animals, from their natural habitats. This encroachment into the wilderness is triggering frequent confrontations between humans and wild animals. This  often results in casualties on both sides. The government's response to these incidents is to offer compensation of Rs 10 lakh for each human life lost to wild animal attacks.

While compensation may provide some relief to the affected families, it fails to address the root cause of the problem. The unchecked intrusion of humans into the forest areas is disrupting the delicate balance of the ecosystem, leading to increased conflicts with wildlife. Moreover, the lure of monetary compensation may inadvertently encourage more people to enter the forests illegally. This would exacerbate the situation and place further strain on both wildlife populations and human safety.

To mitigate the escalating human-wildlife conflicts, it is imperative for the government to prioritize measures that address the underlying causes. This includes stricter enforcement of laws against illegal activities in forested areas, along with initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable and eco-friendly development practices. Additionally, raising awareness among the public about the importance of preserving natural habitats and coexisting harmoniously with wildlife is essential for fostering a more sustainable relationship between humans and the environment. Only through concerted efforts to protect our forests and wildlife can we ensure the safety and well-being of both humans and animals in Kerala.

K A Solaman