Panchayat launches chain-link fencing project to curb wildlife attacks

In a bid to mitigate human-wildlife conflict and safeguard agricultural lands, Vettikavala grama panchayat has launched a new chain-link fencing project. The initiative aims to support local farmers and prevent crop damage caused by wild animals in the region.

Under the scheme, farmers cultivating crops such as plantain, coconut, vegetables, and fruit trees are eligible to receive financial assistance. The panchayat will provide a subsidy of ₹400 per meter of fencing constructed, with a maximum assistance cap of ₹50,000 per farmer. Beneficiaries for the scheme will be selected directly through local gramasabhas.

To qualify for the subsidy, farmers must construct the fence using chain links attached to 1.5-inch GI pipes set in concrete, reaching a minimum height of 1.2 meters. Beneficiaries are required to complete the construction at their own expense initially and submit a valuation certificate issued by an engineer to the panchayat Krishi Bhavan. Additionally, farmers must execute an agreement on a ₹200 stamp paper promising to continue farming on the land for at least five years. For the current financial year, the panchayat has allocated ₹10 lakh from its own fund to construct a total of 2,500 meters of chain-link fencing.

Panchayat president Aji Animon said that the local body remains committed to planning and executing further projects aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflict, securing farmland, and enabling farmers to continue their agricultural activities without disruption.