Government of Kerala
Rapid Response Team (RRT) in Kerala Forest Department: Addressing Human-Wildlife Conflict
Please click here to see the list of RRTs
Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) is a significant issue worldwide, requiring innovative solutions to ensure wildlife and humans coexist. HWC arises from interactions between wild animals and humans, leading to negative impacts on people, animals, and habitats, including loss of crops, livestock, property, and human lives. Key causes of HWC are reported to be habitat degradation, fragmentation, and loss.
The Kerala Forest Department is actively engaged in mitigating human-wildlife conflict (HWC) through both habitat improvement and rapid response measures. Despite efforts to enhance forest habitats to keep wildlife within forest boundaries, the issue persists due to various factors, including habitat fragmentation and climate-induced changes. Crop damage and occasional human casualties continue to challenge communities living near forest fringes.
The Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) play a crucial role in addressing HWC incidents. Once any wild animal sighting outside forest area is reported the RRT will take requisite action. The actions taken by the RRT are highly site- specific and animal- specific. The tools and technologies are provided to the RRT based on the requirement of the location.
These teams are equipped with advanced technologies, such as drones for monitoring conflict hotspots and providing early warnings. They are on standby 24/7 to respond quickly to any wildlife straying into human areas, aiming to reduce response times and mitigate damage to property and loss of life.
The RRTs work synergistically to ensure efficient and effective management of HWC incidents, promoting both human safety and wildlife conservation. By supporting these teams and integrating technological advances, the Kerala Forest Department strives to foster harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife, ultimately contributing to the broader conservation efforts in the state.
The Kerala Forest Department’s RRT are dedicated to protecting both humans and wildlife, ensuring harmonious coexistence. By supporting these teams, we can contribute to reducing HWC and promoting conservation in Kerala.
In the event of a Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) situation, the public is urged to prioritize their safety and maintain a safe distance from the location. This allows the professionally trained and equipped Rapid Response Team (RRT) to take appropriate action and resolve the issue efficiently.