Thiruvananthapuram

 

The Kerala government has decided to constitute a 500-member Special Reserve Force to address the growing threat posed by wild elephants and to strengthen measures aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflicts across the state.

 

Forest Minister Shibu Baby John has directed the immediate formation of the force in response to increasing incidents of wild elephant intrusions that have been disrupting the lives of people living near forest fringes.

 

The Special Reserve Force will comprise 100 units, each consisting of five members, and will be deployed in identified hotspots where the presence of wild elephants is frequently reported.

 

The force will draw its members from tribal communities familiar with wildlife habitats and animal behaviour, retired forest department personnel, experienced local residents, and individuals with relevant technical expertise. These teams will be stationed across the state to support ongoing wildlife conflict management efforts.
Among the key responsibilities of the Special Reserve Force will be the continuous monitoring of elephant corridors and movement patterns.

 

The teams will provide timely warnings to residents whenever elephants are sighted in or near populated areas, using direct communication as well as various media platforms to ensure public safety.

 

The force will also monitor the effectiveness of wildlife prevention infrastructure, including solar-powered fences and other protective systems installed along forest boundaries.

 

In addition, it will assist Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) engaged in safely driving elephants away from human settlements and back into forest areas.

 

Officials said the Special Reserve Force will play a crucial role in conflict mitigation activities, supporting existing forest department operations and strengthening field-level response mechanisms.

 

The units will function round the clock and undertake regular patrolling in conflict-prone regions to help prevent wildlife-related incidents and safeguard both human lives and wildlife.

 

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