Policy MattersWildlife

RAIL FENCING AT NAGARHOLE PROVES TO BE DANGEROUS, FOREST DEPTT INITIATES ACTION

R S TEJUS:

Fencing at Nagarhole Tiger Reserve to mitigate human-wildlife conflict turns dangerous for wildlife.

Recently, the Karnataka Forest Department which has taken up the work of fencing in protected areas bordering villages, had installed rail fencing along the safari route.

This is adjacent to the D-line in Nagarhole Tiger Reserve (Kabini) which borders the villages leading to Bavali and Mananthavady. Unfortunately, this type of fencing using old railway tracks runs for many, many kilometres.

When this reporter visited this place at Antarsanthe range, the fencing was found to be very dangerous for any carnivore or herbivore trying to cross the man-made fencing.

The concerns were due to its design which incorporates sharp metal objects and usage of repurposed railway tracks, all reinforced with barbed wire. In this kind of setup, it presents a significant threat to the local wildlife.

RISING HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICTS

As the instances of human-wildlife conflicts have reach unprecedented levels at Nagarhole, it is evident that effective solutions are urgently needed. While recovery of encroached lands and a halt to further habitat destruction are essential for long-term resolution, temporary measures often take precedence.

Common options include solar fencing and basic rail track enclosures, which typically provide minimal protection but many times, wildlife have got stuck up or got injured in these kind of fences.

However, the specific type of fencing installed at Nagarhole Tiger Reserve raises serious ethical and safety concerns, as its sharp components which jut out dangerously are likely to injure or kill animals be it elephants, deer, tigers, leopards, etc that come into contact with it. Why didn’t the Karnataka Forest Department check the rail fences installed at Nagarhole and advise the contractors to take all precautions and not leave such pointed steel components?

FENCING DESIGN FAULTS

Species like wild boars and cheetal deer are particularly vulnerable, as the design of this fencing effectively traps them, leaving them with little chance of escape. In its dire attempts to break free, these wild animals can suffer horrific injuries, including being severely maimed or even getting killed.

This method of fencing appears to serve more as a barrier to wildlife rather than a protective measure for local residents.

A critical issue arises when considering the purpose and impact of such fencing. For whom is this installation intended? Moreover, what are the specific areas where it has been implemented, and what data is available regarding wildlife casualties? 

NEED FOR SAFE, EFFECTIVE STRATEGY

Overall, it is essential to address these pressing questions and reassess the approach taken towards managing human-wildlife conflicts in Nagarhole Tiger Reserve. A more humane and effective strategy is crucial for safeguarding both wildlife and the interests of the local villagers and communities living on the edge of protected areas.

Speaking to Green Minute, the Nagarhole DCF Seema assured immediate action and directed the concerned range forest officer. The concerned RFO promised immediate removal of the barbed wired and the sharp metal spiked fencing. Kudos to the department for such quick response.

FOREST DEPTT INITIATES ACTION

Range Forest Officer, Antharsanthe Wildlife Range, Siddaraju S S said, “Due to high conflicts, we’d to use such fencing mechanism, thank you for alerting us the dangers of the same.”

He added, “We have started rectifying and now we will remove all the barbed wired fencing and sharp metal object fencing in the d-line areas. We want both people and wildlife to be safe.”

Probably, this has been the most immediate action taken by the department so far. In conclusion, it is crucial to acknowledge that the root cause of human-wildlife conflicts stems from human activities, especially the encroachment on natural habitats and the pressures of a growing population.

STRESS ON WILDLIFE POPULATIONS

As urban areas expand and agricultural demands increase, wildlife is increasingly pushed into smaller, fragmented spaces, resulting in a direct overlap between human settlements and animal territories. This scenario not only raises the risk of conflict, leading to property damage and threats to human safety but also places significant stress on wildlife populations. 

Understanding this complex relationship emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies that balance human development with the conservation of wildlife habitats, promoting coexistence rather than conflict.

It is important for communities to collaborate with Karnataka Forest Department personnel. Currently, in India, many people view the forest department as adversaries; however, a small shift in this attitude could lead to significant improvements.

( PHOTO CREDIT: R S TEJUS AND KARNATAKA FOREST DEPARTMENT)