In a significant step towards mitigating Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC), Aaranyak, a prominent biodiversity conservation organization based in Guwahati, has unveiled two innovative tools: the ‘HaatiApp’ and a handbook on solar-powered fences.
The ‘HaatiApp’, developed with support from the SBI Foundation, serves as an early warning system to alert communities about the presence of wild elephants near human settlements. This mobile application aims to help villagers avoid potentially dangerous encounters with elephants.
Bibhuti P Lahkar, senior conservation scientist and Head of Elephant Research and Conservation Division at Aaranyak, explained that the app will also streamline the process of applying for ex-gratia compensation in cases of elephant-caused damage.
Aaranyak will submit these applications to the respective Forest Divisions on behalf of HEC victims, supporting the Forest Department’s compensation efforts.
Complementing the app, Aaranyak has also produced a comprehensive handbook in Assamese on solar-powered fences, an effective tool in HEC mitigation. Supported by the British Asian Trust and Darwin Initiative, this manual provides detailed information on the installation, management, and maintenance of solar fences.
It is expected to be a valuable resource for community members, forest department personnel, and conservation organizations involved in HEC mitigation efforts.
Both the ‘HaatiApp’ and the solar fence manual are scheduled for an official launch on August 10 in Guwahati. These initiatives represent a significant step forward in promoting human-elephant coexistence in Assam and the surrounding region, combining technology and practical knowledge to address a pressing conservation challenge.
(Inputs from ANI)