Kochi: Forest Minister Shibu Baby John has stated that a comprehensive study of the biodiversity in the area containing the damaged old cart road on the Aluva-Munnar stretch must be conducted before making a decision on the demand to reopen the route. The minister inspected the stretch located in Kuttampuzha, Kothamangalam, on Monday morning, accompanied by politicians, including Idukki MP Dean Kuriakose, and forest officials.
Historical Background of the Cart Road
The old cart road, which was damaged in the devastating floods of 1924, has remained closed ever since. During the inspection, the minister and his team traversed approximately 6 to 7 kilometers of the road. “We understood that, despite the demand from locals to open it, there is a need to study the biodiversity in the area and the impact of reopening the road. A committee comprising experts will be formed to conduct this study,” John said.
Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation
The minister acknowledged that numerous challenges must be addressed to mitigate the human-wildlife conflicts that plague the state. Kerala has already identified hotspots of such conflicts, and a comprehensive project is necessary to tackle them effectively. John revealed that a meeting with Chief Minister V D Satheesan was scheduled for Monday night to discuss the plan in detail.
John highlighted that the funds allocated to the forest department over the years have been negligible and grossly inadequate to meet the necessities and implement mitigation measures. “The forest department is receiving all the blame for the human-wildlife conflicts. This approach needs to change. The department requires funds for purchasing equipment, tools, and increasing manpower as part of mitigation measures. In view of this, the government will extend full support to the department with all seriousness,” he stated.
Three-Layered Defence System
The minister noted that mitigation measures are terrain-based. He proposed a three-layered defence system for areas with high conflict levels. The first layer would involve AI-based sound and light tools. The second layer would consist of solar fencing, and the third layer would be a hanging 12-foot-high lashing belt imported from China. These measures aim to reduce human-wildlife encounters effectively.
John pointed out that the previous government spent Rs 80,000 crore on various projects under the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) but allocated only Rs 130 crore to the forest department. He acknowledged that there is no complete solution for human-wildlife conflict anywhere in the world, only mitigation measures.
The minister also mentioned plans to increase compensation for incidents related to human-animal conflicts. This move is expected to provide better relief to affected families and communities.
