relocation of squatters / institutes from buffer zones

Activists advocate declaring more areas as forest to ensure their protection and prevent developmental activities. “The persistent conservation efforts has helped increase wild elephant population from only about 20 till a few years ago to about 30-40 elephants in Madukkarai alone. However, the forest cover remains the same,” pointed out wildlife activist Umesh Marudhachalam.

According to a senior forest official, the revenue department should strictly implement the standing order on maintaining buffer zones. “No construction activities should come up on the forest boundaries. If it is done properly, the animals will return to the forest after failing to find food or water on the boundaries. However, the local panchayat authorities have been giving permission without understanding the impact of man-animal conflict,” he said.

squatters on Jumbo corridor, The New Indian Express