Idukki to resume dismantling of illegal fences blocking elephant corridors
District Collector Dineshan Cheruvatt orders the dismantling of unauthorised structures that obstruct wildlife movement. Farmers’ groups and the church leaders demand withdrawal of order. Chief Minister says genuine farmers will face no trouble, and only encroached fences will be cleared.
Illegal fences obstructing elephant corridors in the Idukki District of Kerala have prompted the State government to resume removal efforts under the Devikulam forest range. The decision comes despite objections from the Catholic Church, farmers' organizations, and a subsequent clarification from the Chief Minister that genuine farmers would not be affected.
Forest officials have already removed fences at Panthadikkalam, restoring the elephant corridor, and have targeted encroachments on government land. The Forest Minister emphasized strict action against illegal constructions, stating that around 18 wild elephants have been stranded due to blocked corridors. While critics argue that removing fences endangers humans and their properties, authorities maintain that the department is only targeting illegal encroachments and fencing on revenue and forest land.
The District Administration has intensified measures to curb human-wildlife conflict following several recent attacks.
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