Solar-powered hanging fences are being installed in the Chakkittappara panchayat of Kozhikode to prevent wild animals from entering human settlements. This project aims to curb frequent raids by elephants, wild boars, and monkeys that have caused significant damage to local crops and property.
Installation of protective fencing
Field work for the installation of these fences has officially commenced in the Chakkittappara grama panchayat.
The project focuses on vulnerable stretches in areas including Poozhithode, Chempanoda, and Alambara.
Workers have begun ground preparations, including removing trees that obstructed the fence alignment along a 5 km stretch.
Earthmoving equipment is currently being used to prepare the site for the installation of fence posts.
This installation is a physical barrier designed to deter wildlife.
By using hanging solar fences, the department aims to create a deterrent that is both sustainable and effective for the terrain.
Why this project matters
The initiative is critical for local communities that rely on agriculture for their livelihoods.
Farmers have reported substantial losses, as wild animals frequently destroy high-yielding crops in the upland areas.
- Local farmers facing significant crop losses.
- Residents concerned about threats to human safety.
- Settler farmers struggling with agricultural loan repayments.
- Communities seeking protection for their property and land.
These raids have caused financial distress, as many farmers have made large investments in their land.
According to farmer organisations, many individuals are still waiting for reasonable compensation for the destruction caused by wildlife.
Many farmers are currently struggling to repay agricultural loans.
This is further complicated by falling revenue from the agriculture sector, making the protection of their remaining crops a matter of economic survival.
How we got here
The project is part of a broader Forest department initiative launched during the tenure of the Left Democratic Front government.
It covers approximately 64 km of forest borders across the Peruvannamoozhi, Kuttiyadi, and Thamarassery ranges.
Work in Chakkittappara was initially started by the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society about a year ago.
However, progress was initially slow, leading to concerns from local residents and elected representatives regarding the safety of their settlements.
Wildlife incursions have been a recurring issue in these hilly regions.
The decision to install these fences follows repeated reports of animals damaging crops and posing threats to the lives of the people living near the forest borders.
What happens next
The project will continue to expand across several panchayats in the district to secure vulnerable forest borders.
Authorities are also focusing on the maintenance of existing structures to ensure long-term effectiveness.
- Completion of the 18 km fence installation within Chakkittappara panchayat.
- Expansion of fencing work into the Kuttiyadi and Thamarassery ranges.
- Ongoing maintenance of existing power fences covering 27 km.
- Potential assessment of compensation claims for affected farmers.
Future efforts may include fortifying protective measures in additional panchayats that have demanded support.
The Forest department plans to continue monitoring these areas to ensure the proper functioning of the installed power fences.
Key facts at a glance
- The project covers about 64 km of vulnerable forest borders.
- Approximately 18 km of fencing is being installed in Chakkittappara.
- The cost for the Chakkittappara fencing project is ₹2.72 crore.
- Fencing work is planned for 17.5 km in the Kuttiyadi range.
- About 12 km of fencing is planned for the Thamarassery range.
- An additional 16 km is funded by the Agriculture department.
The initiative remains a significant effort to balance wildlife conservation with the protection of human settlements.
By focusing on vulnerable stretches, officials aim to reduce the frequency of animal incursions in these hilly regions.
Read the news report this explainer is based on: Wild animal menace: solar-powered hanging fences to be set up around vulnerable areas in Chakkittappara panchayat in Keralam’s Kozhikode.
Source: Ebenezer News Explainer Desk · Ebenezer News Explainer Desk. Published 17 Oct 2026, 12:45 am.
