The Tamil Nadu Forest Department is set to recommence the installation of a steel wire fence near Thondamuthur in the Coimbatore district, following approval from the Madras High Court. The project is designed to deter wild elephants from wandering into human settlements and agricultural lands.
In accordance with court orders, surveillance cameras will be set up along the 10-kilometer pilot stretch. The cameras will serve to track elephant movement and observe how the herds react to the barrier. Officials have confirmed that cameras have previously been utilized to document elephant behavior in the area. The new system is expected to provide comprehensive data for long-term management.
A department scientist highlighted the effectiveness of similar fences in Hosur. The flexible barrier proved impenetrable to elephants, while causing no harm to the animals. The steel wire fence, in comparison to older rail barriers, is safer, reduces the risk of accidents, and is more cost-effective. The fence, constructed with high-tension steel wire and 10-foot reinforced concrete poles, also allows smaller animals such as deer and leopards to pass through. Officials further noted that the barrier can be opened during emergencies, ensuring flexibility.
Earlier this year, a closed dumping site near the Maruthamalai foothills was fenced off by authorities. This action was taken following the death of a pregnant elephant that had consumed food waste and plastics from the site. The initiative aimed to halt further dumping and prevent elephants from accessing the area.
The Thondamuthur fencing project was initially announced by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin in November 2024. Construction began early this year but was halted after a Chennai-based activist raised concerns in court. On September 5, a special Division Bench, along with amici curiae and stakeholders, inspected the project area. On September 12, Justices N. Sathish Kumar and D. Bharatha Chakravarthy lifted the status quo, permitting the Forest Department to continue with the project.
Related Article: Tamil Nadu Forest Department Launches HAWK, a Digital Platform for Wildlife Crime Monitoring.
