Disturbed by the rising number of man-animal conflict leading to deaths, the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department (KFWD) is planning to use Electronic Control Devices (ECDs) to bridle violent wild animals.
According to the KFWD officials, the device helps to stun the animal, immobilising it for 10-20 seconds, buying time for forest officers to cage or tranquilise it.
“A trial of the equipment was conducted in Kodanad the other day and it was found to be satisfactory.
The department has decided to buy a few devices on a pilot basis,” said B S Corrie, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests.
“The device works by jamming the animal’s nervous system, weakening its movements for a few seconds, which can be used to save lives,” he added.
The machine, which will be supplied by a private company, acts like a gun with electric probes in place of bullets.
The probes may or may not be connected to the device with a wire, depending on the model.
The model, which is connected to the device with wire can be used within a range of 30 feet, whereas the wireless model can be used within a range of 30 feet, said Corrie.
He added that the machine also provides infrared pointer rays to ensure accuracy of the shot and the amount of electricity used in the shot will be decided based on the animal, the terrain and the situation at hand.
“There are no known sideeffects for the device and also the animal doesn’t feel any pain.
The company will also provide the required training to use the device,” said Corrie.
“The final decision regarding the purchase of the gadget will be taken in a meeting to be held in Thiruvananthapuram next week,” said Forests Minister K B Ganesh Kumar.
“Apart from the ECD, the department is also conducting trials on a headcam that helps to capture video of, say, rescue operations or surveillance activities conducted by Forest officials.
The camera, which can be attached to the goggles of the user, can transmit the live video to the headquarters if the wearer is within range.
This advance technique will help gather video data which can be useful later on,” added the minister