Thiruvananthapuram | Kerala Forest Minister Shibu Baby John on Monday said that the state government is committed to protecting the lives and property of people living in forest border areas and will go to every humanly possible extent to address concerns over rising wildlife attacks.
In a Facebook post, the minister said safeguarding people residing along forest fringes is one of the government's foremost responsibilities.
His statement comes in the wake of the Opposition's criticism against rising incidents of human-wildlife conflict in Kerala.
Referring to a recent meeting held at Kothamangalam in Ernakulam with public representatives, farmers, leaders of various organisations and members of the clergy, he said the government explained the measures being taken to prevent wildlife attacks and directly heard the grievances and challenges faced by local residents.
The minister said that although certain constraints arising from central laws exist, the government is not prepared to remain inactive because of them.
"Along with protecting forests and wildlife, the state government is committed to embracing and safeguarding people living in forest border regions and will go to every humanly possible extent to ensure their safety," he said.
John said wildlife attacks can be effectively prevented only through cooperation between the Forest Department and local communities.
He also thanked those who expressed support for the government's efforts and called for collective action to build a safer future for people living near forest areas.
As many as five people have lost their lives in wild elephant attacks in Kerala over the past two weeks.
Human-wildlife conflict was one of the key issues during the Assembly election campaign, with the UDF promising to address the problem if voted to power.
John recently unveiled a 100-day action plan aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflict in the state.
