The number of human animal conflicts have increased dramatically in recent times. The problem is very widespread in the Northeastern region, specially in Assam.
Leopards have often hunted livestock, especially in the tea garden areas. Elephants often come out of the forest areas and enter localities in search of food and water. Even rhinos are known to venture out form the protected areas from time to time. But the latest problems are due to tigers entering inhibited areas.
Recently a wild tiger attacked a laborer in the Numaligarh region of the state. He was engaged in the extension project of the refinery. The tiger was also captured on camera prowing in the area.
In the capital city of Guwahati, the Deepor Beel is a popular watering hole for elephants. Herds of elephants residing in the nearby Garbhanga reserve forest often visit the lake. With their water sources drying up in the heat, the visits to the lake are becoming more and more frequent.
The recent heat wave has also had a very adverse affect on the water resources of the region. A herd of elephants were spotted in the Mariani region of the state. As people were afraid of animals, they engaged heavy machinery to chase away the animals.
With the lack of food and change in weather patterns, these conflicts are expected to grow worse. The only way out is a complete ban on the deforestation that is being carried out. Also initiatives should be taken towards rejuvenating the green cover towards resolving human animal conflicts.
Photo Courtesy: Abhjit Bose.
