The State government’s intensive campaign aimed at mitigating human-wildlife conflict elicited nearly 18,000 petitions, collected from across Kerala during its initial phase. The complaints pertain to nine categories including wildlife conflict mitigation, compensation, tree cutting in plantation lands, and land-related issues.
In a statement, Forests Minister A.K. Saseendran said that two review meetings were held at the panchayat level, and complaints that could be resolved at the range and division levels have been addressed. The remaining issues will be tackled in subsequent phases.
According to official data, a total of 17,955 petitions were registered across the State. The northern circle, comprising Kannur, Kasaragod, Kozhikode, north Wayanad and south Wayanad forest divisions, saw the largest participation, registering 7,246 petitions. The eastern circle, including Nilambur, Mannarkkad, Nenmara and Palakkad, accounted for 4,131 petitions, while the central circle recorded 3,647 petitions.
The second phase of the programme will commence on Wednesday. Over the next four days, the complaints will be categorised, following which district-level meetings, chaired by the Minister in-charge of districts, will be held from October 6-10. The exercise will be followed by various departmental and other meetings. The second phase will focus on addressing complaints that can be resolved with the cooperation of other departments and local bodies at the district level.
Published – September 30, 2025 10:12 pm IST
