Guwahati: Taking cognisance of elephant deaths while crossing the rail tracks near Deepor Beel and electrocution deaths at Chandrapur, the DC Kamrup, Virender Mittal called on all concerned departments to minimize the casualties.
A meeting was held at the Circuit House where officials from PWD, Forestry, Police, Railways, NDRF, SDRF and various NGOs discussed about obstructions on the Elephant Corridor near Deepor Beel and Chandrapur which has resulted in the herds changing their routes creating a man-animal conflict. Serious concerns were raised and discussions took place on grounds to minimise these tragedies.
An NGO representative highlighted how elephants are losing habitats forcing them to change the course and coming down to plain areas even during Monsoons.
The commissioner ordered the Kamrup East, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and the DFO, Wildlife to present a report on issues related to elephant corridor and habitats.
NGO members suggested –
• Closing down the 17 kilometre Garchuk-Rani road for heavy vehicular traffic after 8 PM
• Erection of speed breakers at different points
• No-horn signage at appropriate locations
• Dedicated fencing to stop elephants from outside
The Deputy Commissioner showed concern on elephant deaths caused by electrocution happening in the Chandrapur Revenue Circle. He instructed the circle officer Pallabjyoti Nath to form a committee comprising Forest, Railway, Police and the local population to create public awareness. A decision was taken to facilitate easy movement of the herds and minimise electrocution deaths and human-animal conflict in future.