With no initiative or funding from the Forest Department for installing solar fences along forest borders to prevent wild animal encroachment, many rural farmers have started installing fences independently to protect their crops.
Majority are those who recently replanted rubber for a steady income in the wake of falling prices of various food crops and the risk in continuing with the crops’ large-scale cultivation amidst the increasing wild animal menace. Local entrepreneurs trained in solar fencing are also cashing in on the situation.
“The cost will come around ₹1.5 lakh for a small fencing project in about a 500 metre area. Options are aplenty for its customisation based on the requirement and funds,” said an experienced solar technician from Kakkadampoyil village. He said there were many farmers from areas such as Anakkampoyil, Poovaranthode, and Kakkadampoyil who completed the works independently as there were no other feasible alternatives.
