Status of Electric Fences as a Mitigation Strategy for Human-Elephant Conflicts in the Northern Districts of West Bengal,India

Abstract

Background: The Indian elephant (Elephas maximus indicus), a subspecies of the Asian elephant, is predominantly found in India, supporting nearly 60% of the global population. In West Bengal state, particularly in the northern districts (Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar) unremitting habitat destruction, encroachment, and high population densities of both humans and elephants have led to an escalation in human-elephant conflicts (HECs). Among different mitigation measures, electric fences (EFs) are commonly preferred, however, illegal usage of lethal EFs has led to increased cases of electrocution-based elephant mortalities. Aims: A study was conducted at selected HEC-prone sites in elephant habitats of the northern districts to (i) document the physical status of EFs installed, (ii) examine local community perceptions regarding the efficacy of EFs in mitigating elephant raids, and (iii) provide recommendations for the sustainable management of EFs. Methods: Firstly, secondary data (2017–2023) on elephant electrocution incidents were collected from literature, official records, and media sources from the study area. Based on this, EFs were assessed at 33 conflict-prone sites across various land-use types. Subsequently, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 166 randomly selected residents within 5 km of the fence sites to assess their perceptions regarding efficacy of EFs. Statistical analyses were executed to analyse associations between fence characteristics, land-use, and socio-demographic factors. Results: Of the 62 fences assessed, 32 were active and 14 were found to be lethal. The findings revealed non-lethal fences were more prevalent than lethal ones, indicating a growing awareness within local communities about the adverse impacts of lethal EFs. The perception-based survey revealed that 39.8% of respondents considered EFs moderately effective in mitigating conflicts. Implication for Conservation: While mass-awareness has shown promising results, policymakers are recommended to implement stricter regulations and establish region-specific monitoring squads.