Has steel wire fencing work started in TN's Coimbatore to prevent elephant intrusion?
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Synopsis
In a significant move to safeguard human settlements from wild elephants, Coimbatore has initiated the installation of a 10-foot steel wire fence. With an expected completion in three months, this project is poised to enhance the safety of both people and elephants in the region.
Key Takeaways
- 10-foot-high steel wire fence aims to curb elephant intrusion.
- Project cost estimated at Rs 5 crore.
- Expected completion within three months.
- High-tensile steel design enhances durability.
- Includes measures for monitoring elephant movement.
Chennai, Nov 5 (NationPress) After considerable discussions, the construction of a 10-foot-high steel wire fence has commenced along the forest boundary in the Coimbatore and Boluvampatti forest ranges, aimed at mitigating wild elephant incursions into adjacent human habitats.
The undertaking, projected to cost Rs 5 crore, was declared by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin last year. This fence will span a 10-km distance from Vettaikarankovil in the Boluvampatti range to Kottaimuthumariamman Kovil in the Coimbatore range, traversing through the Attukal tribal settlement.
Currently, the area is undergoing bush clearance, after which the contractor will install the steel structures for the poles. A Hosur-based company, which has successfully completed similar fencing projects in the Hosur forest division of Krishnagiri district—covering around 30 km in the past six years—is executing this project.
This initiative reportedly yielded positive outcomes in reducing elephant intrusions in the area.
Officials have stated that the new design will incorporate a 10-foot-high steel wire fence consisting of ten strands of high-tensile steel wire between each set of poles, capable of enduring up to 18 tonnes of pressure. Unlike previous installations in Hosur that utilized pre-cast concrete pillars and eucalyptus spacers, the Coimbatore initiative will feature high-strength steel pillars and spacers for improved longevity and weather resistance.
This effort is part of the Tamil Nadu Forest Department's strategy to tackle the escalating human-elephant conflict in the Coimbatore and Boluvampatti ranges, which have experienced frequent elephant movements over the last decade.
The project faced a temporary halt after an animal rights activist from Chennai raised concerns that the fencing might obstruct elephant movement. However, following a field inspection on September 5 by a special division bench of Justices N. Sathish Kumar and D. Bharatha Chakravarthy, along with the amicus curiae and forest officials, the Madras High Court authorized the project to proceed with specific safeguards, including ongoing camera-based monitoring of elephant movement.
Forest sources indicate that the work is anticipated to be finalized within three months, although rocky terrain in certain areas may lead to slight delays. Upon completion, the steel wire fencing is expected to serve as a robust barrier aimed at diminishing human-elephant conflict throughout the Coimbatore forest division.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the balance between wildlife conservation and human safety. The Tamil Nadu government's initiative to construct a steel wire fence in Coimbatore represents a proactive approach to mitigating human-elephant conflicts. While addressing the concerns of animal rights advocates, the project also demonstrates a commitment to protecting local communities. Such measures, if executed responsibly, can pave the way for coexistence between humans and wildlife.
NationPress
05/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the steel wire fencing in Coimbatore?
The steel wire fencing aims to prevent wild elephant intrusions into human settlements, enhancing safety for both people and elephants.
How long will the fencing project take to complete?
The project is expected to be completed within three months, although some delays may occur due to rocky terrain.
What features does the new fence design include?
The new design includes a 10-foot-high steel wire fence with ten strands of high-tensile steel wire, designed to withstand up to 18 tonnes of pressure.
Who is executing the fencing project?
The project is being carried out by a Hosur-based firm experienced in similar fencing works in the region.
What safeguards are in place for elephant movement?
The Madras High Court has mandated continuous camera-based monitoring to ensure that elephant movement is not obstructed by the fencing.
