The A-chik State People’s Front (ASPF) Pedaldoba Sub Unit has urged Chief Minister Conrad Sangma to establish a permanent wildlife protection camp in the region for the safety of humans and elephants.
In a letter to the CM, the organisation said this is a pressing concern faced by the residents of the Pedaldoba area under West Garo Hills as it has been significantly affected by incidents of human-elephant conflict, resulting in the loss of lives and extensive damage to crops.
“Wild elephants frequently encroach upon human settlements in search of food, leading to property damage and, in some unfortunate cases, fatalities. Such conflicts have resulted in considerable distress for both the local community and wildlife,” ASPF said.
The organisation said establishing a permanent wildlife protection camp is imperative to mitigate the challenges as a camp would not only ensure the protection of human lives but also promote the safe coexistence of elephants and local communities while safeguarding agricultural interests.