Local bodies in Kerala have urged the State government to develop master plans for mitigating human-wildlife conflicts based on accurate ground-level data.

A single-window system for forest-related permits, joint coordination committees for forest panchayats, and formulating disaster management protocols are also among the key suggestions mooted by panchayat representatives at a joint meeting of local-self government institution members and the Forest department in Thiruvananthapuram to discuss a coordinated strategy to address the growing human-wildlife conflicts across the State.

The participants recommended steps such as fencing, trenching and other physical barriers wherever feasible, besides improving habitat conditions within forests by ensuring adequate water sources and food availability for wildlife.

Highlighting the developmental challenges faced by settlements in and around forests, local body representatives urged the government to expedite approvals for essential infrastructure such as roads, drinking water projects and electricity connections.

Office-bearers of the Kerala Grama Panchayat Association also sought special financial assistance for losses caused by wild animals, including crop damage, attacks on livestock and destruction of houses. They also called for a government-backed insurance scheme covering agriculture, livestock and homes of people residing in forest-fringe regions.

Among the technological interventions proposed were AI- and SMS-based early warning systems to alert residents about potential wildlife threats. The meeting also called for a special integrated development package for panchayats with forest areas, covering residents living inside forests, along forest boundaries and in nearby habitations.

There were also calls to introduce a rehabilitation mechanism under the Rebuild Kerala Initiative for those residing in forest-fringe areas. The government has also been urged to acquire such land, provide compensation, and implement a time-bound rehabilitation programme for consenting families.

Published - July 21, 2026 08:10 pm IST