Aaranyak, a leading biodiversity conservation organisation in India, has installed 20 pairs of signages across strategic points in Assam’s Udalguri, Baksa, and Tamulpur districts to address the pressing issue of human-elephant conflict (HEC). Conducted during October and November, the initiative is supported by the SBI Foundation and aims to reduce the risks posed by frequent human-elephant interactions in these areas.
These signages, placed at key elephant crossing points, serve as critical reminders for locals and travellers to exercise caution. Designed in English, Assamese, and Bodo, they cater to the region’s linguistic and cultural diversity, ensuring their messages reach a broad audience.
The locations were identified through a collaborative process involving members of the Elephant Conservation Network (ECN), local communities, and the Forest Department. By incorporating ground surveys, historical records, and stakeholder feedback, Aaranyak ensured that the installations target areas with genuine conflict potential.
The districts where the signages were installed host critical elephant corridors connecting habitats across Assam, Bhutan, and Arunachal Pradesh. These corridors are vital for elephant movement and conservation, but human activities such as farming, road usage, and settlement expansion have increased the likelihood of conflicts in these regions.
Scientific studies highlight that advance warnings, like those provided by these signages, significantly reduce the risk of surprise encounters, accidents, and vehicle collisions. Beyond raising awareness, the initiative reinforces the ecological significance of these corridors, reminding communities of their role in conserving this shared landscape.
Elephants, as keystone species, are essential for maintaining ecosystem health. Protecting their migratory routes not only safeguards the species but also contributes to broader conservation goals, including maintaining genetic diversity and ecological resilience.
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The signages are part of Aaranyak’s comprehensive approach to addressing HEC, which also includes habitat restoration, promotion of non-forageable crops to reduce crop damage, and alternative livelihood programmes. Together, these measures aim to foster coexistence while minimising risks to both humans and elephants.
Aaranyak prioritised community involvement throughout the initiative. Awareness sessions and interactive discussions with local residents explained the purpose and significance of the signages. These engagements fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility among the communities, highlighting how the installations could save lives, protect livelihoods, and promote safety.
The installations were carried out by Aaranyak’s dedicated team, including Mondeep Basumatari, Abhijit Saikia, Bikash Tossa, and Pradeep Barman, with active participation from local residents.
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