M. A. R. Manukulasooriya, Hiriyala group correspondent
The North Western Provincial Council will erect a 155 km electric fence as a solution to the human-elephant conflict dragging on for a number of years. The estimated cost of the project is Rs. 85 million. This was revealed at the monthly meeting of the Kurunegala District Development Committee held at the Provincial Council auditorium. co-Chairmen of the Committee, Co-operatives and Internal Trade Minister Johnston Fernando and Wayamba Chief Minister Dayasiri Jayasekara presided. It was also decided at this meeting to renovate a section of the existing 56km electric fence, which is in a dilapidated condition.
According to Wildlife officers, the mostly affected areas are Polpithigama, Ehetuwewa, Galgamuwa, Giribawa, Maho, Ambanpola, Nikaweratiya, Rasnayakapura, Kotawehera and Kobeigane DS divisions.
“Ever since man encroached on the homelands of the elephants, the human-elephant conflict continues with no solution at sight. We have to think of the plight of the elephants too, but most people are not concerned about them. Each month at least two or three persons die after being attacked by elephants while the elephant population is fast dwindling due to electrocution, being shot or knocked down by locomotives. This is a very sad state of affairs,” Chief Minister Dayasiri Jayasekara said.
- See more at: http://www.dailynews.lk/?q=local/nwp-erect-155-km-electric-fence#sthash.hTv5bnvz.dpuf
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