Tue Nov 05 13:43:37 UTC 2024: ## Erode Farmers Demand Action Against Human-Wildlife Conflict
**Erode, Tamil Nadu, November 5, 2024:** Over 2,000 farmers, traders, and residents gathered at the Talavadi taluk office on Tuesday to demand immediate action from the district administration regarding the escalating human-wildlife conflict in the region. Led by Kumara Ravikumar of Namathu Nilam Namathe Vivasayigal Nala Sangam, the group presented a petition outlining their concerns and demands.
The farmers highlighted the frequent incursions of wild animals, particularly elephants and boars, from the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR) and the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve (BRT) into their villages. This has resulted in significant crop damage and, tragically, loss of human lives.
The petition called for the installation of rail-track fencing along the forest boundary to prevent further elephant incursions. They also urged the deepening and maintenance of elephant-proof trenches.
The farmers further demanded an increase in the solatium paid to families of those killed in elephant attacks to ₹15 lakh. They also requested unrestricted access for residents of Mavallam, Devarnatham, and Kuliyada villages to the Kuliyada – Dhimbam Ghat Road. Additionally, they sought permission to perform rituals at forest temples.
The farmers expressed their opposition to the proposed relocation of ten villages within the STR, which would displace 656 families. They also requested round-the-clock passes to use the Dhimbam Ghat Road.
The Tahsildar, Subramani, received the petition and assured the farmers that it would be forwarded to higher officials for consideration.
First Piper 