KOLLAM: Solar fencing in villages bordering forests in Eastern Kollam has proved futile. Reports of recurring incidents of wild animals attacking humans and livestock still come from these areas. Over 80 cases of leopards attacking domestic animals occurred in the last two years.
The fencing was done in areas like Kulathupuzha, Thenmala, Ottakkal, Uru-kunnu, Mambazhathara, Cherukadavu, and Aryankavu where human – animal conflict is high. “The fencing to protect the public from wild animals has proven to be an utter failure with continuing attacks. No measure has been taken for its proper maintenance. It's a waste of money. Even the Vana Samrakshana Samithi is least cared about maintenance. The forest department should employ a permanent agency for the maintenance, and complete installation,” A.T. Philip, a former member of Punalur block panchayat, told DC.
A leopard was spotted at Ooralkuzhi near Thenmala last week by a rubber tapping labourer, and the residents chased it off to the forest bursting crackers. A month back, cattle were killed by leopards at Anachadi and Florence in Thenmala. Apart from these, a wild elephant killed Thulaseedharan, a tapping labourer, at Kuravanthavalam near Thenmala. The forest department has set a cage near Urukunnu to trap the leopard. Man – animal conflict is also prevalent in areas like Chennagiri and Muruganpanchal.
Residents of Eastern Kollam including Aryankavu and Thenmala bordering forests have been gravely affected by the attack of wild animals including elephants, swine, and leopards. It has also resulted in huge loss of crops and cattle.
